Why state must address Isiolo conflict urgently

For the past two weeks, rival pastrolist communities in Isiolo have been engaging each other in a dangerous confrontation, which is quickly spiralling out of control. Nearly 20 people have so far been killed in the conflict, 12 of them last weekend alone.

Marauding raiders have been setting houses ablaze and hundreds of families have been forced to flee to seek refuge in Isiolo town.

Although there are police officers on the ground they have somehow been unable to contain the violence which is said to have been sparked off by armed herders who invaded Isiolo and stole livestock.

At a time when Kenya is confronting the Al-Shabaab inside and outside its borders, it’s disturbing to hear stories about Kenyans rising against each other. That’s why the Government and all those who care must do everything to resolve this conflict expeditiously. We need police and military’s undivided attention to address the Al-Shabaab menace. Conflicts such as Isiolo’s can only serve to strengthen Al-Shabaab as resources will be diverted to address them.