Kajiado leaders have called for unity and peaceful coexistence following recent violent clashes in Isinya town that left several people injured and property destroyed.
Speaking during Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kitengela, Kajiado East Constituency, Governor Joseph Ole Lenku emphasised that Kajiado County is home to people from diverse ethnic communities and urged residents to embrace harmony and peace as a key pillar of the county’s growth.
“It is unfortunate that in the recent past, there has been violence between two communities in Isinya town, and that is not the true reflection of Kajiado County. I want to urge Isinya residents in particular to maintain peace and coexist harmoniously,” said Lenku.
The governor urged Kaputiei North Member of County Assembly Joshua Olowuasa and Kajiado East Member of Parliament Kakuta Ole Maimai to engage other local leaders in finding lasting solutions to the recurring violence in Isinya, saying that violent confrontations only breed division.
Governor Lenku also pledged to work closely with County Commissioner James Taari to support ongoing peacebuilding and reconciliation initiatives within the affected communities.
County Commissioner Taari echoed the governor’s sentiments, underscoring that peace is an invaluable asset for Kajiado’s progress and investment potential.
“As Kajiado, we have a resource that we must protect, and that is peace. We must jealously guard it. For us to attract investors and for our businesses to flourish, we must maintain peace,” said Taari.
The commissioner further issued a stern warning against drug and substance abuse, particularly the sale of illicit brews, noting that security agencies will take firm action against those involved in such illegal activities.
Kajiado East MP Kakuta Ole Maimai also called for calm, stressing that unity is the foundation of social cohesion and development. “Violent confrontations can never be the solution,” he said.
On October 9, violence erupted in Isinya following a disagreement between a boda boda rider and his passenger, sparking a deadly clash between two rival groups. Several people were injured, and four motorcycles were set ablaze during the chaos.
Authorities have since restored calm as local leaders and elders lead peace talks to avert future incidents and foster lasting reconciliation among the communities.
by Diana Meneto
