Disarmament will ensure long-lasting peace in Kerio Valley – Kindiki

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki with Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen and other leaders on Saturday while presiding over the Elgeyo-Marakwet Economic Empowerment Engagement at Sambirir Grounds in Marakwet East/DPCS

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has backed the intensity of ongoing disarmament efforts in the Kerio Valley to ensure lasting peace and security in the region.

Kindiki said ridding the area of illegal firearms marks the final phase in the quest to restore peace after bandits were subdued in earlier security operations.

The Deputy President noted that the government has made significant progress in the war against banditry in Kerio Valley and other bordering counties in the North Rift region.

He commended the multi-agency security teams that have suppressed criminals and recovered illegal guns, saying the Ruto administration remains committed to achieving lasting peace in the area.

Speaking on Saturday while presiding over the Elgeyo-Marakwet Economic Empowerment Engagement at Sambirir Grounds in Marakwet East, the DP encouraged Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who attended the event, to intensify the disarmament campaign for its ultimate success.

“Disarmament will ensure long-lasting peace in Kerio Valley. I believe Murkomen will complete what we started and deliver lasting security in the area. Continue with the good work of disarmament that you have begun — you have our full support,” Kindiki said.

So far, more than 285 firearms and 2,000 rounds of ammunition have been surrendered since the exercise was launched.

The DP said the area is endowed with immense economic potential and pledged to empower residents once normalcy fully returns.

“Once disarmament is complete, the President will lead us in burning the surrendered firearms, and we will hold major empowerment events to help residents engage in productive activities,” he added.

Kindiki said the security operations launched when he served as Interior Cabinet Secretary had yielded results, with bandits, cattle rustlers, and other criminals being suppressed.

“I worked hard to deal with insecurity in the area when I was Interior Cabinet Secretary. We did everything possible to restore peace and normalcy. I am happy we set the pace for lasting security,” he said.

At the same time, the Deputy President assured residents that Elgeyo-Marakwet County would not be left behind in national development.

He said Sh780 million had already been disbursed for the expansion of last-mile electricity connections targeting 9,000 new households.

He added that stalled road projects, including the Kapyego–Chesoi and Chesoi–Embobut roads, had resumed and were progressing well.

Kindiki also praised residents for embracing the Social Health Authority (SHA) medical cover, revealing that the county ranks third nationally in enrollment.

“Good health is every Kenyan’s right; it is not a privilege for a few,” he noted, urging more Kenyans to enroll to access better healthcare and reduce hospital costs.

Leaders present at the event included Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Elgeyo-Marakwet Governor Wesley Rotich, Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, Senators William Kisang (Elgeyo-Marakwet) and Veronica Maina (Nominated), and several Members of Parliament among them Caroline Ngelechei (Elgeyo-Marakwet), Bowen Kangogo (Marakwet East), Timothy Toroitich (Marakwet West), Gideon Kimaiyo (Keiyo South), and Adams Kipsanai (Keiyo North).

Others included Trans Nzoia County MP Lilian Siyoi, Migori County MP Fatuma Zainab Mohamed, Emurua Dikir MP Johanna Ngeno, Taveta MP John Bwire, and Emgwen MP Josses Lelmengit.

Also in attendance were National Treasury PS Dr. Chris Kiptoo, the President’s Aide Farouk Kibet, Members of the County Assembly, and other leaders.