Silverio Omari
Former West Pokot Governor John Lonyangapuo is urging the government to initiate a new disarmament exercise in the North Rift region, asserting that this is the only effective way to combat banditry.
Lonyangapuo expressed alarm over the rising number of killings, noting that despite the presence of KDF and other security forces, violence persists. He attributed this ongoing issue to the resurgence of illegal firearms in civilian hands.
He questioned, “How is it possible that we are still grappling with this problem at this stage?”
According to Lonyangapuo, the only way to resolve the insecurity is for the government to take decisive action rather than engaging in blame games, ensuring that those in possession of illegal weapons surrender them.
“When there’s a push for an operation to retrieve illegal firearms, the government tends to lose focus and shifts blame to supposed warlords or politicians inciting unrest,” he said.
Lonyangapuo warned that if this situation continues, the region might fall behind in development.
Earlier this month, West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin called for peaceful coexistence to allow students to remain in the region and attend school. “We are working with the national government to ensure the affected schools reopen with adequate security,” Kachapin stated.
Sigor MP Peter Lochakapong emphasized the need for enhanced security in schools. “The government promised to ensure the schools reopen. We need KDF in the area and the reconstruction of the schools,” he said.
In response to banditry attacks and resulting fatalities last year, the government launched a security operation involving the police and military to restore order. However, some leaders have criticized the government’s perceived lack of commitment to addressing banditry.
They have called for investigations into security officers accused of aiding banditry and urged for legislative measures to protect the National Police Reservists Unit. Tiaty MP William Kamket also pointed out the need for clearer delineation of constituency and county borders to reduce conflicts from uncontrolled grazing.
