Karungo questions CS Murkomen’s continued presence in Senate WhatsApp group

Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thangwa recently questioned the Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen's continued presence in the Senate WhatsApp group despite leaving the House four years ago to join the Executive. During an interview on Friday, September 5, 2026, Karungo stated that he had repeatedly raised the issue but received dismissive responses, citing the argument that "once a senator, always a senator."

Karungo found Murkomen's membership puzzling because the group is for senators to discuss Senate-related matters, including internal issues. He asked why Murkomen was in this group when discussing Senate matters and intimate work discussions. To demonstrate Murkomen's membership, Karungo showed the interviewer the list, pointing out Murkomen's name and number.

The interviewer verified the number as Murkomen's, confirming his continued membership. Karungo also questioned Murkomen's role in the group, suggesting he is a silent participant who reads posts without engaging in discussions. The senator argued that Murkomen's presence allows him to monitor Senate activities and relay information to President William Ruto, raising concerns about the independence of the Senate.

This issue was previously raised by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who felt his concerns were being attacked by goons through Murkomen in the Senate WhatsApp group.