By E, KNA
Narok County Governor Patrick Ntutu has called on communities in Lolgorian and Angata Barikoi areas of Transmara South Sub County to embrace dialogue and peaceful coexistence amid rising tensions over boundaries and land under contention, which have left hundreds living as squatters.
Speaking in Kilgoris after a day-long engagement with three warring communities, Governor Ntutu urged residents not to be provoked into conflict by a few politicians who continue to incite hostility among them.
Already, over 109 families have been rendered homeless due to ongoing clashes. Governor Ntutu attributes these conflicts largely to reckless political statements by some leaders in the area.
“We, the political leaders, are the ones fueling conflict in Kilgoris. These people have been living peacefully as one big family despite their cultural differences. We must refrain from reckless speeches and incitement,” the governor emphasized.
He further called on residents of Transmara South Sub County to embrace dialogue and maintain the harmony they have enjoyed for generations. “I want to urge all residents to continue living in peace and harmony as they have since time immemorial,” he added.
The governor also revealed that his administration plans to convene meetings with community leaders at various levels to address the disputes before they escalate. “I will organize a meeting with all leaders from the Maasai, Kisii, and Kipsigis communities in Narok early next year to deliberate on avenues that can help resolve this matter amicably and uphold peace in the area,” Ntutu stated.
The sentiment was echoed by Kilgoris MP Julius Sunkuli, who called on leaders to refrain from incitement to gain political mileage, describing such actions as risky and inhumane.
“Let us not politicize sensitive matters. As leaders, we must shun trading people’s lives for our own selfish political gains,” said MP Sunkuli.
The legislator further urged the government and humanitarian organizations to provide urgent assistance to affected families, many of whom have lost homes and property. He also called on Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen to ensure the disarmament of individuals holding illegal firearms to restore peace.
“The families here need urgent intervention. Most people have lost their properties and require support from all available sources. The CS Interior must act decisively in disarming those with illegal firearms, and those behind the incitement must be held accountable,” Sunkuli emphasized.