Every major newspaper in Kenya today is carrying headlines after Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen used his powers under the Prevention of Terrorism Act to designate both the Muslim Brotherhood and Hizb-ur-Tahrir as terrorist organisations. Tuko.co.ke – Kenya news.+2The Star+2
In Legal Notice No. 157, published in the Kenya Gazette Supplement of September 19, 2025, Murkomen declared the two groups alongside al-Shabaab among the lists of proscribed entities. Membership, financing, propaganda, or association with these groups has become illegal, with heavy penalties for offenders. Tuko.co.ke – Kenya news.+1
Some of the key points highlighted across the newspapers:
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The Daily Nation lay out that neither group has been accused of carrying out attacks in Kenya, but intelligence sources have flagged concerns over radicalisation and clandestine recruitment. Tuko.co.ke – Kenya news.+1
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The Star and The Standard emphasize how this move gives security agencies more power — to freeze assets, ban meetings, investigate suspects, and disrupt financial networks tied to these organisations. The Star+1
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Many papers also note that the declaration remains effective until Murkomen or the court revokes it. The Star+1
The move has sparked public debate. Supporters claim this strengthens Kenya’s counterterrorism stance and aligns with international efforts. Critics caution about possible misuse of powers, and warn about sweeping bans that might impinge on freedom of association or religious expression.
What comes next?
Implementation will be watched closely: how prosecutions are handled, how intelligence is gathered, and how due process is respected. The decision is historic, but its long-term outcomes will depend heavily on enforcement and oversight.
