Elgeyo Marakwet: The government has deployed security personnel in all schools and health facilities in Kerio Valley sub-county to ensure uninterrupted service delivery. Elgeyo Marakwet County Commissioner Dr. John Korir emphasized that the government will act firmly against those threatening non-locals in the region.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Korir, speaking at Madaraka Day celebrations at Kessup Primary School in Keiyo North sub-county, affirmed that all Kenyans have the right to work anywhere in the country, provided they adhere to the law. He cautioned against any attempts to force non-locals to leave the Kerio Valley and highlighted the importance of national unity and cooperation for development.
Dr. Korir noted the area's agricultural productivity, particularly in fruit production, and stressed the need for collaboration with traders from other regions to fully realize its potential. He acknowledged the ongoing challenges posed by insecurity and expressed gratitude to local leaders for their unified efforts to address this issue.
The county police commander, also present at the event, assured attendees of the government's commitment to tackling insecurity but called for community support through information sharing. He emphasized that the fight against insecurity requires collective effort.
Youth leader Bethwel Ngetich urged the government to intensify efforts to resolve the insecurity problem, expressing frustration over the stigma of being labeled as bandits. The recent killing of Fr. Allois Bett by bandits has brought renewed attention to the region's security issues. A requiem mass for the priest is scheduled at the Sacred Heart Cathedral Eldoret, followed by his burial in Olessos, Nandi pastoral region.