Kenya's Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has urged Members of Parliament to allocate more funds for security roads to enhance access and combat banditry in affected regions. He made the appeal while appearing before the National Assembly's Internal Security and National Administration Committee. Murkomen stated that his Ministry had not received funding for security roads for the past three to four years, hindering efforts to improve security.
Murkomen revealed that the Ministry of Interior had been forced to rely on the Roads Ministry to construct and maintain security roads, a process he described as challenging due to cash flow issues. He implored the committee to restore security roads funding for the Ministry of Interior to effectively address security concerns. The CS emphasized that the government was seeking additional budgetary support to open and improve security roads as part of its multi-agency approach to combating banditry.
The government plans to recruit additional National Police Reservists over the next six months to strengthen police capacity. Murkomen highlighted that effective law enforcement must be combined with conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and socio-economic interventions. He cited the success of two phases of Operation Maliza Uhalifu in restoring normalcy in parts of Baringo, West Pokot, Turkana, and Elgeyo Marakwet counties.
Despite the successes, Murkomen identified parts of West Pokot, Tiaty, and Turkana as among the remaining areas of concern. He also cited a belt stretching from Samburu East through Laikipia North, Isiolo, and Meru, which has been declared a disturbed area. The Interior CS assured that the government would intensify security operations in these areas to liberate them from bandits.
Murkomen expressed confidence that the approach used in Laikipia, Baringo, West Pokot, and Elgeyo Marakwet could restore security in the remaining bandit-prone areas. He urged MPs not to politicize security during campaigns and called for continued cooperation with security agencies. The CS also challenged MPs and governors to use development funds to improve roads in affected areas.
Murkomen suggested that better infrastructure would improve access and spur economic activity in these regions. He noted that there are very few roads that, if developed, could make an area accessible, grow economically, and make people feel part of Kenya. The CS emphasized the importance of cooperation and effective funding to address security concerns.
The issue of banditry and security roads funding is critical in Kenya, particularly in regions experiencing insecurity. The government's efforts to combat banditry and improve security have shown positive results in some areas. However, continued support and cooperation from MPs, governors, and the public are essential to achieving lasting peace and stability.
Key points
- Murkomen urges MPs to allocate funds for security roads to combat banditry.
- The government plans to recruit additional National Police Reservists to strengthen police capacity.
- Murkomen expresses confidence in the approach used in Laikipia, Baringo, West Pokot, and Elgeyo Marakwet to restore security in bandit-prone areas.
