NAIROBI, Kenya – Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetang’ula, has urged Members of Parliament from Baringo County to actively engage their communities in restoring peace and security, following renewed concerns over escalating violence in the region.
Addressing the House during the afternoon sitting, Speaker Wetang’ula commended the Administration and National Security Committee for facilitating a detailed report on the security situation in six counties noting that while some counties such as Turkana, Samburu, Isiolo, and Marsabit have witnessed relative calm, Baringo continues to experience persistent instability.
“Currently, the area that is experiencing a lot of problems is Baringo, we will be able to give a report to the House immediately after the recess.” Said Dido Raso, the security committee Vice Chairman.
He called upon leaders from Baringo, including MPs Reuben Kiborek (Mogotio), Joseph Makilap (Baringo North), William Kamket (Tiaty), Musa Sirma (Eldama Ravine), Hon. Florence Jematia (County MP), Joshua Kandie (Baringo Central), and Charles Kamuren (Baringo South), to use the recess period to reconnect with their constituents, particularly the youth, many of whom have been accused of involvement in banditry and the illegal possession of firearms.
“Encourage them to stop wielding illegal firearms,” Wetang’ula urged. “It is those young men who vote for you… Go and meet them and talk to them, so that as leaders, you also play your role to ensure that there is peace within your jurisdiction.”
The Speaker emphasized the need for a proactive, homegrown approach to peacebuilding, urging youthful legislators such as Kiborek to use their age and relatability to bridge the gap with the affected youth.
“Your access to them is better than probably Musa Sirma’s and others’. Don’t wait for the police to come from Nairobi you can also play your part.”
In response, Musa Sirma assured the House that leaders from Baringo were committed to addressing the situation.
He pledged to spearhead efforts aimed at de-escalating the conflict and restoring order in affected areas.
“We take your statement very seriously,” said Sirma. “On behalf of all the members those present and those not we shall endeavor to clean up what is the mess within Baringo.”
The Speaker concluded by urging the team not to leave anyone behind, insisting that all local leaders, including Kamket, must be part of the grassroots outreach.
As Kenya continues to grapple with pockets of insecurity in its northern regions, Parliament is calling for more than police intervention leaders are now being urged to lead by example and promote peace directly within their communities.
