Tension is escalating in Macalder/Kanyarwanda in Nyatike Sub-County, as human rights activists in the Nyanza region demand the immediate withdrawal of General Service Unit officers deployed to restore order.
The deployment was prompted by violent protests by residents over the state of insecurity after an M-Pesa attendant was killed by a gang that locals claimed was operating with impunity.
The deployment of the special unit came after the enraged residents on March 14, this year went on rampage and stormed Nyatike Police Station and the Nyatike Deputy County Commissioner’s Office (DCC), where they destroyed property, torched police vehicles, and set police housing units on fire.
The latest demands come just days ahead of President William Ruto’s scheduled visit to Nyatike on Monday 23, March.
Speaking after a peace meeting with the Nyatike Sub-County Commissioner, Mr Daniel Omukokho, the Luo Elders Peace Alliance from Nyatike, led by their chairman, Mr Pius Okelo, expressed deep concern, warning that essential services including healthcare, education, and businesses, have been brought to a standstill.
Meanwhile, the youth wing has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the government, calling for the withdrawal of the officers, accusing them of instilling fear and forcing residents to flee their homes and seek refuge in the bushes.
They are now urging leaders from Migori County to break their silence and advocate for the people of Macalder.
However, Nyatike Sub-County Commissioner Daniel Omukokho has reassured residents, urging them not to fear the police presence.
He says the officers are targeting criminal gangs behind a series of gun attacks and insists that normalcy is gradually returning, with businesses reopening and learning activities resuming.
On Thursday this week, another group of residents from Macalder/Kanyarwanda urged the Internal Security and National Administration Principal Secretary (PS) Raymond Omollo to intervene and halt the ongoing police operation in the area to safeguard lives and property and allow children to return to school.
By Geoffrey Makokha
