Nyanza Governors Call for GSU Deployment Amid Sondu Clashes

05, Oct 2023 / 2 min read/ By Livenow Africa

Nyanza Governors Anyang' Nyong'o (Kisumu), James Orengo (Siaya), and Gladys Wanga (Homa Bay) have jointly appealed to Interior CS Kithure Kindiki to deploy GSU police to quell ongoing clashes in the Sondu region.

In a shared statement, the governors expressed their frustration with the ineffective efforts of the police in restoring security and order.

They pointed out concerns that police from the Kericho side appeared to support the warriors or ignored their attacks on local residents.

The governors urgently recommended the deployment of a GSU contingent to restore peace and security to the area.

The clashes in Nyakach Sub-County around the Sondu market have persisted for the last two days, with the blame placed on neighboring communities in Kericho County, despite warnings from the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) that such remarks could exacerbate the situation.

The governors' statement also alleged casualties, cattle theft, and property damage, although these claims remain unverified by the media or police.

They called for the expedited resolution of the boundary dispute between the two counties through proper government procedures.

Notably, President William Ruto has yet to address the insecurity issues in the region, as he is scheduled to begin his Nyanza tour on Friday, October 6.

Interior CS Kithure Kindiki had previously visited the Sondu area, condemning the attacks and warning those involved in the clashes under the guise of border disputes.

Nyanza MPs, led by Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi, also issued demands to the government, emphasizing the need to address the issue before it escalates further. Wandayi highlighted the risk of victims feeling abandoned by the state and resorting to self-defense measures if the killings continue.

Tags