MPs Propose Creation of New Ministry & Issuance of Special Guns
The Cohesion Committee of the National Assembly has put forward a series of initiatives designed to enhance security in the North Rift region in response to the increasing incidents of banditry.
In a gathering held in Machakos County on Friday, April 12th, legislators suggested establishing a distinct ministry focused on matters concerning the North Rift region. They also recommended providing specialized firearms to address the issue of banditry.
The Members of Parliament observed that establishing the new Ministry wouldn’t be unusual, citing examples like Uganda, where specialized ministries have been formed to address security issues in specific areas.
It was also clarified that the newly established ministry would assist in addressing the marginalization experienced in the region.
“To deal with the marginalization of the region, Members resolved that a ministry dedicated to issues of the North Rift region equivalent to the Ministry of Karamoja Affairs of Uganda should be established,” read the statement by Parliament in part.
However, the Members of Parliament suggested equipping the police and National Police Reservists (NPRs) involved in security operations in the region with G3 firearms.
The committee observed that distributing the firearms would serve as a strategic maneuver to assist security agencies in pinpointing illicit weapons in the region.
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Presently, certain officers utilize AK-47s, firearms which are also employed by the bandits.
“The Hon Yussuf Hassan-led Committee and the MPs held extensive deliberations before reaching an agreement that the government should set up a Fund to facilitate compensation for victims who lost lives and property to attacks that were instigated by bandits.
“They also want legislation that will safeguard the National Police Reservists Unit, remodel the unit, define their roles, and enhance their training,” read the statement in part.
Lawmakers have emphasized the significance of well-defined boundaries in the area as a means to tackle ongoing insecurity, while also urging the government to boost funding for education.
In the past few years, the North Rift area has been troubled by conflict, leading President William Ruto’s administration to launch Operation Maliza Uhalifu in 2023 to address the situation.
Additionally, members of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) are working together with the police to carry out the security operation.
MPs Propose Creation of New Ministry & Issuance of Special Guns