Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has taken steps to ease tensions in Siakago Town, Mbeere North, following recent clashes between two groups.
During his visit to the area, CS Ruku condemned the unrest and pledged government support to residents affected by the violence.
He assured business owners that compensation would be provided to those whose enterprises were damaged or looted.
“We must not allow the actions of a few individuals to divide our community. Anyone involved in criminal activities in Siakago will be held accountable regardless of their background,” he said.
The violence, which began on Monday, has disrupted business operations, paralysed transport, and raised security concerns across the town.
Residents from the Mbeere community have raised several grievances they say have gone unaddressed for too long.
Among the key issues are reports of a rise in motorcycle thefts.
Additionally, residents expressed concern over the presence of young people who reportedly do not possess identification documents.
They are now calling for the registration of all businesses in the area, particularly those owned by non-locals, to enhance accountability and security.
“The situation is being worsened by perceptions of bias and limited action by law enforcement,” said one community leader.
“Several reports have been filed at Siakago Police Station, but progress has been slow,” he added.
CS Ruku criticised local government officials and police officers for what he described as insufficient action.
He announced that the Interior Cabinet Secretary has approved the immediate transfer of senior police officers.
The County Security Committee, which held a closed-door meeting before CS Ruku’s address, has not ruled out political incitement as a possible factor in the unrest.
By mid-morning Tuesday, demonstrators had blocked major roads in and out of Siakago, forcing motorists to use alternative routes.
Sporadic confrontations occurred throughout the day, with reports of stone-throwing and physical altercations.
Several people sustained injuries during the incidents, leading authorities to deploy additional security personnel to restore order.
CS Ruku later convened a high-level meeting with security agencies and local administrators to develop a coordinated response and outline steps toward reconciliation.
He urged residents to remain calm and patient as investigations continue. He also called for unity and emphasised that justice would be served fairly to all parties involved, regardless of ethnicity or social standing.
