By Michelle Ndaga
The escalating wave of insecurity in Turkana County has prompted Turkana South MP, Hon. (Dr.) Ariko Namoit, to formally request a statement from Parliament regarding deteriorating law and order in the region.
Speaking under Standing Order 44(2)(c), Dr. Namoit called on the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security to provide clarity on measures being taken by the government to address a series of alarming incidents that have raised fears among residents and local leaders.
In his submission to the National Assembly, the MP cited multiple instances of insecurity:
- April 29, 2024: Abduction of his Constituency Manager, Sammy Ekitela, and assault of three staff members.
- August 10, 2024: Violent clash in Lorogon involving supporters of rival political factions.
- June 28, 2025: Firearm snatched from a member of his security detail during a burial ceremony in Lopiding, reportedly involving individuals linked to the Governor.
- Ongoing: Illegal roadblocks in Lodwar Town manned by unauthorized individuals posing as security personnel.
“These acts of aggression and disregard for law and order are deeply concerning,” Dr. Namoit told Parliament. “The failure to act has emboldened certain groups to assume the roles of security agencies, undermining the rule of law and threatening peace in the region.”
The MP is seeking a comprehensive report from the Committee Chairperson, including the status of investigations into key security incidents, measures being implemented by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration to curb disruptions by hired groups, and long-term strategies to prevent similar breaches.
Turkana has faced additional violent incidents, further highlighting the county’s security fragility:
- Todonyang Massacre (Feb 2025): Over 40 civilians killed by suspected Ethiopian militia, prompting parliamentary inquiries and diplomatic notes.
- Kainuk Bandit Attacks (Aug 2025): Violence along the Turkana West Pokot border has disrupted trade, farming, and mining, with armed bandits disguised as herders killing civilians and stealing livestock.
- Curfew Considerations: Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen had proposed easing curfews in Turkana South and East following earlier security gains, though recent unrest may affect that decision.
Authorities have responded with measures including deployment of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) units, aerial surveillance, and plans for a permanent military base in Turkana East. MPs continue to press for accountability, increased police presence, and diplomatic engagement to secure the border regions.Local leaders and civil society groups are also advocating for the expansion of National Police Reservists (NPRs), strengthened peacebuilding efforts, and the arrest of perpetrators and financiers of banditry.
Dr. Namoit’s parliamentary request underscores a broader leadership and governance concern: if insecurity is politicized or ignored, public trust in state institutions may erode, potentially deepening instability in northern Kenya.
