Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has cautioned that is too early to celebrate the gains of the ongoing joint security operation to flush out armed bandits in Kerio Valley.
Addressing hundreds of delegates attending the North Rift Economic Bloc (NOREB) peace summit at Kitale Club, Natembeya claimed some Members of Parliament in the region are now taking advantage of the sanity restored to arm their supporters for selfish political interests.
“Security officers, if your are listening to me, don’t celebrate because you have silenced the guns; go and check what those characters are doing,” the governor said.
“These MPs, let me say the truth – they may come to impeach me but it is the truth. What are they doing when the guns are silent and when nobody is watching them, you’ll be shocked they are now arming their people,” he added.
Natembeya who chairs the Peace Committee in the Council of Governors said such politicians were reversing the gains made by the government through the ongoing security operation.
“For me, silencing of the guns could just be tactical retreat to come back and make a fool of what the government has done all this time,” noted the former Rift Valley regional commissioner.
On his part, West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin, who led a delegation from his County said there is need for intense disarmament of illegal gun holders in the region.
“All criminals with illegal firearms should be disarmed and legal action taken against them no matter their titles or status in the society,” Kachapin said.
He further appreciated the role of religious leaders in restoring peace.
Women involvement in peace efforts
Kachapin also warned that no meaningful development will be realized in the region without peace.
Elgeyo Marakwet Deputy Governor Grace Cheserek who represented Governor Wisley Rotich said women should be given an integral role in peace initiatives.
“We urge all peace actors and partners to consider involving women. I am saying women because they will talk to their sons, husbands and even son-in-laws. They are also the recipients of stolen livestock,” Cheserek said.
On her part, Nandi Deputy Governor Yulita Cheruyiot said all the counties participating in the peace process should allocate funds in their respective budgets to facilitate the peace programmes.
The two day NOREB Peace summit will end on Friday with delegates expected to come up with recommendations on how to bring lasting solution to Kerio Valley insecurity.
