Human Rights Activists in the North Rift region have welcomed the government’s decision to launch a multi-agency operation in the volatile Kerio Valley.
Led by Centre for Human Rights and Democracy (CHRD) director Kipkorir Ng’etich, the activists say the move will help bring to an end killings and banditry that have rocked the region for years.
President William Ruto over the weekend directed Interior Cabinet Secretary Prof. Kithure Kindikito to launch the operation that will involve Kenya Defense Forces (KDF).
Kindiki on February 13, 2023, gazette the operation, listing some of the areas disturbed and dangerous.
But even as the operation starts, Ng’etich has asked the multi-agency team to ensure no criminal moves out of the volatile region and regroups in another area.
“The step taken by the president is highly welcomed owing to the nature of attacks and killings in the region. The government should now ensure there’s a well-coordinated operation in all areas affected by this crime to avoid the criminals fleeing and regrouping in other untouched areas,” said the CHRD boss.
The Eldoret-based activist also asked the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to work on getting more information that may lead to the arrest of financiers and beneficiaries of cattle rustling.
Economic empowerment
Meanwhile, Ng’etich is calling on locals in the Kerio Valley to cooperate with the multi-agency team that will be conducting the operation in the area to ensure culprits and arrested.
He has however asked the government to look at ways that will ensure locals in the region are economically empowered.
“In the meantime, the government should explore ways of ensuring that viable economic activities in the banditry regions are activated so that our young people are not compromised to engage in criminal activities. These regions should be open economically in terms of infrastructure to enable the provision of medical services, education, transportation and agriculture,” the CHRD director said.
“Lastly to avoid residents seeking arms to protect themselves, the government should ensure there is long-lasting peace and permanent security,” he added.
The insecurity has affected several counties in the North Rift among them Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo and West Pokot all of which have part of Kerio Valley, as well as Turkana.
