Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has taken a firm stance on the recent killings reported in Kitui County, warning that the government will not tolerate continued violence and promising strong action against those behind the attacks.
Speaking during his tour in the region, Kindiki described the incidents as “barbaric” and deeply unfortunate, saying they threaten peace, stability, and normal life for residents who depend on coexistence for survival.
He said security agencies have already been instructed to intensify operations in affected areas and ensure that those responsible are arrested and prosecuted without delay.
The Deputy President noted that the government is treating the killings as a serious security matter and not isolated incidents.
He stressed that every life lost is a tragedy and warned that no individual or group will be allowed to operate outside the law under the cover of community conflicts or political differences.
His remarks come at a time when parts of Kitui have witnessed repeated clashes linked to long-standing tensions over resources such as grazing land and water points.
In some cases, retaliatory attacks have worsened the situation, leaving families displaced and communities fearful.
Kindiki said the state is moving beyond short-term responses and focusing on a long-term solution that addresses both security enforcement and the root causes of conflict.
He pointed out that criminal elements often take advantage of resource-based tensions to carry out attacks, making it harder to distinguish between genuine community disputes and organised crime.
He further warned that anyone found to be involved in planning, financing, or executing the violence will face the full force of the law.
The Deputy President also made it clear that accountability will not be influenced by social or political status, insisting that justice must be applied equally.
“We are going after the criminals behind these killings. Whether they are ordinary citizens or people with influence, the law will apply equally,” he said in remarks echoed in the government’s security briefings.
Kindiki also urged local leaders and residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing information that could help prevent further attacks.
He cautioned against statements or actions that could inflame tensions, saying politicising insecurity only makes the situation worse and distracts from real solutions.
At the same time, he assured residents that the government is committed to restoring calm and protecting lives and property in the region.
He said additional security personnel have been deployed and patrols increased in hotspot areas to deter further violence.
The Deputy President added that lasting peace will require cooperation between communities, government institutions, and local leadership.
He encouraged dialogue among conflicting groups, supported by state-led interventions aimed at resolving disputes over land use and livestock movement.
Residents of affected areas have expressed mixed reactions, with some welcoming the government’s tough stance while others calling for faster action to stop the cycle of revenge attacks.
Many have also appealed for stronger protection, especially in remote villages where response times are often slow.
As investigations continue, the government maintains that restoring stability in Kitui remains a priority.
Security agencies are expected to continue operations in the region as authorities work to track down suspects and dismantle networks believed to be fueling the violence.
For now, Kindiki’s message is clear: the era of unchecked killings must end, and those behind the violence will be pursued until peace is fully restored.
Post a Comment