Francis Lotodo, warmonger who defied President Moi

The history of cattle rustling cannot be complete without mentioning the name of former Cabinet minister Francis Lotodo.

Mr Lotodo, a man of contradictions, was a fierce fighter, controversial MP, former convict, fugitive and an inciter who is also highly regarded as a fearless leader who gave his all for the Pokot.

In the 1980s, he was among a few Kalenjin leaders who criticised President Daniel Moi about the communities’ development. For that, he was sacked from the Cabinet, arrested and imprisoned.

In 1981, he was accused of buying arms for the Pokot and was implicated in cattle rustling and incitement.

Residents say he contributed to “opening up the eyes of the Pokot” by urging them to drop arrows and spears, buy guns and defend themselves from their aggressive neighbours.

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