The government wants political leaders from the banditry prone North Rift region to commit support to the ongoing security operation in the area.
The Interior Ministry wants an assurance from North Rift Members of Parliament that they will shoulder equal responsibility in the war against the banditry.
Interior Principal Secretary (PS) Raymond Omollo says the strategy is one of the behind-the-scenes attempts to end the long running insecurity problem in the fragile region.
“All we are seeking is an unwavering commitment to the peace cause. All these leaders have to bear responsibility, both individually and collectively,” said Omollo.
On Tuesday, Omollo held a consultative meeting with six of the legislators at Harambee House on Tuesday.
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The PS challenged the leaders to leverage their influence at the grassroots and help security agencies isolate the criminals from law-abiding citizens during the ongoing operation.
“Previous attempts to pacify the region have run into a wall of non-cooperation and resistance. It’s not just hard force,” said PS Omollo.
“We intend to deploy smart warfare and progressively deplete the enemy’s fighting force. The area leaders have a lot of influence, and we believe they are critical assets in this operation.”
The MPs included Julius Rutto (Kesses), David Kiplagat (Soi), Gideon Kimaiyo (Keiyo South), Abraham Kirwa (Mosop), Timothy Toroitich (Marakwet West) and Reuben Kiborek (Mogotio).