Munya requests security for counties' disputed areas

Meru Governor Peter Munya has called on the national government to deploy security organs in parts of the county that have been disputed by other counties. 

Mr Munya singled out areas in Meru that have been claimed by Isiolo and Tharaka Nithi counties. 

Addressing the press in Meru town, Mr Munya claimed leaders from the two counties have been inciting people to invade parts of Meru county despite there being clearly demarcated boundaries. 

“Leaders should take caution of the utterances they make in the public as it can cause conflict. Security is a function of the national government and the people of Meru have to protected as it is their right that is enshrined in the Constitution,” said Mr Munya. 

He alleged that during a leaders meeting at Kisimani in Igembe South district, TharakaNithi Senator Kithure Kindiki incited residents of his county to invade farms of Igembe inhabitants.

In August, several houses were burnt down at Gatithini area and twenty five people arrested in connection with the incident have been released without being charged in court.

“We were perplexed when leaders incite their people to invade peoples farms. The law should apply to all and sundry irrespective of their position in the government,” he said.

CALL FOR PEACE

At the same time, the governor condemned Tuesday's attack in Gambela area where five residents were attacked by a group of armed youths. 

Two women were reportedly raped and assaulted and the three men cut with machetes. 

He called on people living in the disputed area to live peacefully.

“I am aware of the invasion that is said to have occurred at Matabithi area on the border between Isiolo and Tigania East district. We appeal to the people to coexist peacefully as the national government seeks a solution to this stalemate,”he said. 

He, however, called on Isiolo Governor Godana Doyo to stop inciting Isiolo residents in claiming parts of Meru. 

“We cannot be talking of reconciliation and incite the people. The boundaries are clearly demarcated and leaders should therefore, at all times, desist from making derogatory statements which can cause a breach of peace,” Mr Munya said. 

The governor further urged residents of the two counties to differentiate between individual and community disputes saying that differentiating the two would lead to a better understanding.