Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has directed chiefs and assistant chiefs in banditry zones to work with security agencies in mopping up illegal guns, warning that the Government will not tolerate wanton killings by criminals practicing outdated practices.
Speaking on Sunday in Baragoi Town, Samburu County when he attended a Sunday Mass, the Deputy President said banditry was intolerable and will be dealt with firmly.
“We cannot accept banditry. The killing of fellow Kenyans, and children, and attacking women because of outdated practices is unacceptable,” said Mr Gachagua.
While challenging the national administrators to enforce the law in their areas of jurisdiction, the DP said action would be taken against those who were lax in discharging their duties.
“Those who still engage in these practices will face the full wrath of the government. Those still with illegal guns must return them. The chiefs and sub-chiefs have firm instructions to ensure there are no illegal guns in their areas,” added the DP.
During the festive, Mr Gachagua said security would be beefed up for residents to partake in the Christmas festivities without fear of attacks.
“We will not allow anyone to disturb peace in Baragoi and other areas in the region during this Christmas season. This is a country under the rule of law. The people of Baragoi and Samburu must enjoy peace,” he said.
Baragoi has largely remained peaceful because of the security interventions the government has put in place in the region over the last year.
The Deputy President, who was in Samburu County for a church service and fundraiser for the construction of a pastoral center, also said the Government is closely working with the county government to repair roads destroyed by El Nino rains.
“The Cabinet Secretary for Roads Kipchumba Murkomen will be in the county this week to assess the situation and ensure repair works commence,” he said.
Residents lacking food after areas were cut off will also receive relief food with DP revealing 800 bags of maize and rice and 300 bags of beans already on the way for distribution in the county.
He also said the expansion of electricity from the nearby Marti Town to Baragoi is ongoing.
Area leaders said they would support the government in enforcing security measures for development to prosper in the county.
“This is our government because we voted for it. Security in Baragoi has improved since the government came into power. We are fully behind it to ensure long-lasting peace and development,” said Samburu County MP Pauline Lenguris.
Deputy Governor Gabriel Leneywesi said a good working relationship between the county and national government had ensured improved security.
The Sunday service was presided over by Maralal Diocese Bishop Hieronymus Emusugut Joya.
