State denies claims of security failure

The government Sunday defended itself against claims that it had failed to contain insecurity in the country.

The director of Political Affairs in the Office of the President, Mr Joshua Kutuny, sought to assure Kenyans that President Uhuru Kenyatta and Deputy President William Ruto were doing their best to ensure Kenyans are safe from internal and external criminals.

Mr Kutuny said the allegations by Cord members that the government was insensitive to security challenges bedevilling Kenyans were deliberate attempts to discredit the presidency and incite Kenyans against a legitimately-elected government.

“This is pure propaganda by the opposition. The claims are reckless, ill-advised and in bad faith. Within months after assuming office, the government has demonstrated not only willingness but readiness to tackle the security issues facing our nation,” he said.

Mr Kutuny said the government had also put in place security measures to protect citizens and their properties through a number of ways, including the installation of security surveillance devices in major towns.

These, he said, would ultimately reduce not only the rate of ordinary crimes but also arrest the numerous threats posed by Al-Shabaab.

He further said the government’s move to lease some 1,200 vehicles would see police boost patrols and curb crime across the country.

Mr Kutuny said the ongoing police reforms are also part of the government’s wide agenda to stabilise the country.

He said the ‘Nyumba Kumi’ initiative, where Kenyans are expected to know their neighbours, would enable Kenyans to be in charge of their own security.

“Criticising government efforts to end crime does not alleviate the security challenges facing this country,” he said.