Peace returns in Narok after days of clashes

Some of the displaced families at Olepusimoru in Narok queue for aid from the Kenya Red Cross yesterday at Olengurone Township Primary School, where more than 700 people are camping following the skirmishes between the Kipsigis and Maasai communities. [Photo: Boniface Thuku/Standard]

Calm has returned to Olpusimoru in Narok County, a day after Interior Cabinet Secretary Joseph Nkaissery issued a warning that peace should immediately be restored.

By Monday, the area appeared quiet and members of the Maasai community in Olpusimoru centre regretted the incident.  Nkaissery, who was accompanied by among others his Energy counterpart Charles Keter and Inspector General Joseph Boinnet on Sunday warned the two communities to stop fighting and immediately make peace between themselves.

Nkaissery, who said he had other important security matters to attend to in Lamu before flying to the area, had warned those who would be found carrying bows and arrows that they would be arrested.

Members of the Maasai community blamed the devil for the skirmishes, which erupted on the eve of Christmas Day.

But those displaced and camping in Olenguruone, mostly from the Kipsigis community, said they feared returning to their homes, saying they would not know where to restart as their properties were either torched or stolen. They said the incident had subjected them to untold suffering.

Ward administrator Joseph Pasiany condemned the incident, saying innocent members from both communities are undergoing difficult times as a result of a ‘small matter’ that could have been resolved.

“We are now hosting in our homes people displaced from their homes. It was so unfortunate but we are calling on our neighbours to return and live peacefully,” said Pasiany.

Pasiany lauded the State for acting, saying it was a sign of taking the right responsibility at the right time.

Insecurity fear

Peace ambassadors, who were seen moving and talking to Morans in the small but busy centre, thanked the Government for the urgent and effective intervention.

Morans were unarmed unlike in the past few days. Adorning red Shukas, they regretted the incident, blaming the devil for the clashes. Most of them said they were already witnessing the negative impact of animosity in the area.

“There was nothing to eat. The only thing you could have put in your stomach was partly roasted maize,” said Brian Kosen.

Several residents were seen queuing at a small local hotel, which was the only one open to served tea.

Members from the Kipsigis community seeking refuge at Olenguruone Secondary School said they would not return to their homes until their security is assured.

They said schools are opening for the first term in a week’s time and what they had prepared for the fees was cattle that had all been stolen.

 Ludia Soy broke into tears as she explained how her three children in secondary schools and university will be forced to stay home, after everything was destroyed. “I need Sh70,000 for their fees. What will I do?” she posed.

Kenya Red Cross Society and leaders from Nakuru gave those displaced in Olenguruone basic requirements including blankets and foodstuff.