Security
Kitui County Commissioner (CC) Kipchumba Rutto has appealed for cooperation between security agents and members of the public in efforts to strengthen security and enhance the prevailing peace in the county.
Rutto reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting these efforts and ensuring that the region remains a safe and peaceful place for all its residents. The CC made the appeal, when he presided over the establishment of the Kitui county multi-sectoral coordination and collaboration forums on peace and security, during a Security consultee forum held at Kitui Multi-Purpose Hall in Kitui town.
Addressing the forum, attended by local government security agents, stakeholders and selected members of the public, Rutto, who also is chairman of the county security committee emphasized the National Government’s constitutional obligation to maintain law and order, protect property, promote peace and harmony, safeguard fundamental rights and ensure effective service delivery to all citizens.
He lamented that the recent security threats witnessed across the country have significantly impacted on the overall state of peace, necessitating immediate and coordinated efforts to restore stability. Rutto stated that the government’s primary duty is to ensure that every Kenyan lives in a secure environment, where their rights are respected and their property is protected.
“We are committed to promoting peace and harmony within our communities, fostering national integration and cohesion and ensuring loyalty to the Republic of Kenya,” he said. He further explained that the establishment of Kitui County Multi-Sectoral Coordination and Collaboration Forums on Peace and Security, aims to create a framework for state and non-state members to collaborate in addressing security challenges in the county.
The CC noted that the formation of Peace Committees is a strategic move, which will bring together different stakeholders to foster dialogue, identify potential sources of conflict and develop sustainable solutions. The peace committees will also well enhance information sharing, thus enabling the government to address emerging security issues more effectively.
At the same time, the CC emphasized the need for enhancing collaboration between state and non-state actors, facilitating peace outreach initiatives and developing comprehensive County Peace Plans. “We must be proactive in our approach to security. Regular consultations and collaboration among stakeholders are key to identifying and addressing potential conflicts before they escalate,” Rutto said.
Facilitating information sharing is also critical to ensuring that we respond quickly to emerging threats,” he added. Rutto also underscored the importance of early warning systems and conflict prevention mechanisms. He called on stakeholders to focus on enhancing early responses to conflicts, evaluating peace enhancement meetings and preparing regular security reports to keep track of the progress.
Speaking during the same meeting, Kitui central sub county police commander, Peter Karanja echoed Rutto’s sentiments, stressing the need for citizens to take an active role in their own security.
Karanja pointed out that while the police are mandated to protect the rights of citizens, the common mwananchi also has a responsibility to ensure their safety by being vigilant and cooperative with law enforcement agencies.
“Security is a shared responsibility. Though the police are here to protect you, it is also crucial that residents play their part by being vigilant and reporting suspicious activities. By working together, we can effectively prevent conflicts and ensure a peaceful environment for everyone,” he stated.
The police boss also emphasized the importance of community associations and collaborations in enhancing security. He urged residents to be proactive in forming neighborhood watch groups and other associations that can assist in monitoring and reporting any potential threats.
“Community associations are vital in the fight against insecurity. They provide a platform for residents to work together, share information, and support each other in times of need. Such collaborations can significantly reduce the likelihood of conflicts and enhance overall community safety,” he said.
Karanja highlighted the need for continuous peace outreach programs to educate the public on the importance of peace and security. He noted that these programs would not only raise awareness, but also encourage community participation in peacebuilding initiatives.
“Peace outreach programs are essential in educating the public on the importance of maintaining peace and security. Through these initiatives, we can build a culture of peace within our communities and encourage active participation in peacebuilding efforts,” Karanja explained.
The sub county police commander also stressed the importance of developing County Peace Plans as part of the broader strategy to enhance security in Kitui County. He noted that these plans would provide a roadmap for coordinated actions and interventions aimed at preventing and resolving conflicts.
“County Peace Plans are a critical component of our security strategy. They will guide our efforts in preventing conflicts and ensuring that peace-building initiatives are well coordinated and effective,” he concluded.