Perpetrators of Kisumu-Kericho border violence will be punished, PS Omollo

The Government will not spare people who perpetrate inter-ethnic violence between residents of Kisumu and Kericho counties, Interior PS Raymond Omollo has warned.

Speaking at Oriwo Boys Secondary School in Karachuonyo Constituency, Omollo said measures have been put in place to de-escalate the violence.

While affirming government’s resolve to end the tensions, Omollo maintained those found guilty will be dealt with in accordance with law despite the side they might have come from.

“The government will not tolerate or accept any justification anybody may give, these are criminal acts and perpetrators must face the full force of the law,” Omollo said.

He said the government had deployed more security teams comprising of personnel from both sides and tasked to ensure a long lasting solution.

“Security committees have held their first meeting to review what has transpired since Wednesday. Their objective is to put a mechanism in place, not only for deterrence but to ensure violence does not recur or get out of hand,” Omollo said.

The PS said the violence is historic since it began many years ago. However, the government is putting various approaches in place to end it.

He said the Ministry of Interior is also engaging elected leaders from both counties on how to get amicable solutions for solving the problem.

“The clashes are a historic problem that did not start yesterday. As a ministry, I appeal to the elected leaders of both counties that reason has to prevail and we must have an amicable way of settling the disputes,” Omollo added.

A lasting solution he said will enhance peaceful co-existence among residents of the two counties.

The inter-ethnic violence broke out on Wednesday in which one person was killed at Sondu. Fighting continued after the death.

Omollo’s sentiments have been echoed by Kasipul MP Ong'ondo Were who said the government must move swiftly and restore peace.

Were claimed the situation is becoming dire as members of a certain community seem to the target.

The legislator said by the fact that police had become partisan, it had made the whole scenario more tense while escalating the tensions.

"Police have always used teargas in a case where there are security issues. Why don't we see them use some force in dispersing the assailants?" Were said.

As a sign of good will Were said Interior CS Kithure Kindiki and the PS should make it a priority and visit the area to quell the clashes.

"Sondu is at the boarder of Kisumu, Kericho and Homa Bay County counties. We residents of Homa Bay County are also affected," he said.