Mandera leaders criticise extrajudicial killings

A senator and a governor have reacted sharply to a Kenya Human Rights report on extrajudicial killings.

Mandera Senator Billow Kerrow and Isiolo Governor Godana Doyo linked some government agencies to the killings.

Mr Kerrow said the report that was published last week is worrying, as more than 100 victims are involved.

However, responding to the accusations, Isiolo County Commissioner George Natembeya said it is not a government policy to kill people.

He blamed the public for failing to cooperate with law enforcement officers to ensure that criminals are punished.

Mr Natembeya urged locals to keep off game reserves, and issued a stern warning against people who misused rifles in game parks.

“People should stop doing illegal businesses in the parks. These areas are meant for wildlife and tourists,” said the commissioner.

MYSTERIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES

The human rights report indicates that some people in Kinna and Isiolo Central have either disappeared or have been killed under mysterious circumstances.

In June, the Senate Committee on Security visited several regions including Isiolo to investigate the killings.

“I am aware of a top wildlife official who is perpetuating the vice. His days are numbered,” said Mr Kerrow.

Governor Doyo urged government agencies to uphold people’s dignity and human rights. He said KWS has no right to kill anyone, including suspected poachers. He said they should be arrested and taken to court.

Mr Kerrow was speaking in Isiolo on Saturday when he presided over the launch of an ultra-modern service station.

The Independent Medico-Legal Unit is investigating the disappearance and killings in Isiolo.