Govt establishes peace committee to address disputes in Trans-Mara

Speaking at the funeral of the former Chief of Ang'ata Barikoi in Narok County, Mr. Elijah Kiplangat Soi, Governor Patrick Ntutu announced that he has already reached out to his counterpart from Migori County, Dr. Ochilo Ayacko, to form a 120-member committee, with 60 members from each side, to mediate the conflicts.The conflict between the Kalenjin and Kuria communities living on the border of Ang'ata Barikoi and Migori has led to serious concerns, especially after a man from Ang'ata Barikoi was shot and injured while farming last week.Narok County leaders have strongly condemned the insecurity and are taking steps to address it.Governor Ntutu stated that the committee will be composed of representatives from the different tribes involved in the clashes to lead the peace process.Ntutu added that the National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO) would also be in the committee to assist in the mediation efforts and improve security along the border.'Leasing of land is the core issue here, and it must be resolved,' the governor emphasised.On his part, Narok Deputy Governor Tamalinye Koech, mentioned that he previously organised a meeting with elders from both communities, along with the Deputy Governor of Migori County, to develop comprehensive strategies for establishing peace.Tamalinye said there is no need to involve politics in this matter of resolving disputes, because it is for the benefit of the communities.Additionally, Kilgoris Member of Parliament, Julius Sunkuli, stated that he will never allow his people to be forced or oppressed over land issues and is ready to defend them.Former Member of the County Assembly, Gabriel Mibei, of Ang'ata Barikoi Ward, expressed that it is time to put an end to the menace and criticise the security forces for neglecting their duties.'What is happening is mere negligence of duties by the security operators, and we are not ready to lose more lives,' Mibei added.Source: Kenya News Agency