Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o has issued a strong plea for an end to the ethnic conflict that has engulfed the Sondu area in recent days.
In a press release issued on Friday, Governor Nyong'o expressed his deep concern over the violence, destruction, and displacement that have resulted from the clashes between rival factions.
"For the past two days, there has been mayhem at Sondu market and along the Kisumu-Kericho border which has resulted in deaths, injuries, destruction of property and displacement of several families," Governor Nyong'o stated.
Nyong'o assured the public that he has been in constant contact with the Kisumu County Security and administration officers to ensure peace and security in Sondu.
However, despite their efforts, the situation remains tense, with more families, particularly from the Kisumu side, fleeing their homes due to fear and violence.
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Livestock has also been forcefully taken from their rightful owners, exacerbating the already dire situation.
In a firm condemnation of the ongoing skirmishes, Governor Nyong'o expressed his dismay at the conduct of the police deployed to quell the violence.
"We protest at the conduct of the police deployed to quell the skirmishes. We have received reports on their partisan behaviour and witnessed them standing by, unperturbed as youths, armed with arrows and other crude weapons from the Kericho side, march into Sondu market to attack traders. We expected the police to have blocked, disarmed and arrested them," Nyong'o said.
Governor Nyong'o called on the National government to act swiftly by deploying neutral police officers to investigate the root causes of the clashes and protect the residents from both sides.
He stressed the need for a thorough examination of the factors that ignited the conflict, which has claimed lives.
In the interest of peace and good neighbourliness, Governor Nyong'o appealed for calm and an immediate ceasefire.
Furthermore, the Governor called upon leaders from the Kericho side to demonstrate leadership and urge their people to lay down arms.
"We call on leaders from the Kericho side to show leadership and ask their people to lay down arms and allow structured discussions to address the reasons behind the conflict," Nyong'o said.
He emphasized the importance of structured discussions to address the underlying reasons behind the conflict and find a lasting resolution.
The violence in Sondu has not only caused loss of life and injury but has also disrupted economic activities, particularly in the bustling Sondu market.
Many families now face severe hardship and starvation as the security situation worsens.
As Sondu grapples with this distressing ethnic conflict, Governor Anyang' Nyong'o's call for an immediate ceasefire and neutral investigation stands as a resolute plea for peace.
The Governor's appeal for calm and structured discussions among leaders from both sides is crucial in addressing the root causes of the conflict and finding a sustainable solution.
'The fate of Sondu's residents rests on the urgent action and cooperation of all involved parties in restoring peace, stability, and unity to the troubled region.
