Narok: Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has advised residents of Narok County to settle land disputes peacefully, urging them to desist from violence that results in loss of lives and severe injuries to both civilians and police officers.
According to Kenya News Agency, Murkomen expressed concern over the increasing number of violent clashes related to land ownership in the area. Speaking to the media in Narok town ahead of the Jukwaa la Usalama Town Hall meeting, he noted that many disputes have deep-rooted historical origins, with ancestral claims predating the establishment of the formal land registration system. Murkomen encouraged locals to resolve land issues amicably while waiting for settlement through court processes and community dialogue.
The CS observed that the rising land value in Narok has heightened tensions, making disputes more volatile. Although calm has been restored in some areas, he warned that the conflict remains unresolved. He highlighted that a significant flashpoint involves a 6,500-acre parcel of land in Ang'ata Barikoi, Kilgoris, contested between the Maasai and Kipsigis communities. Residents fear losing the land through alleged unfair arrangements and political interference, accusing certain politicians of attempting to seize the land without proper legal processes or compensation.
Murkomen underscored the importance of county security teams in facilitating community barazas, dialogues, and mediations to restore trust and prevent further conflict. He called on political leaders to act responsibly and avoid exploiting land disputes for personal or political gain, warning that such actions could undermine peace and stability. The Interior Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to supporting peace-building efforts in Narok and other counties experiencing similar tensions.
Murkomen also addressed concerns about cattle rustling and the spread of illegal firearms in parts of Narok County. He stated that security agencies are monitoring individuals procuring ammunition from as far as West Pokot, Uganda, and Tanzania and smuggling it into the county to fuel inter-community conflicts. He urged residents in possession of illegal firearms to surrender their weapons voluntarily at the nearest police station before a multi-agency security operation begins to recover all illegal weapons.