Former Cabinet Secretary for EAC, ASALs and Regional Development, Peninah Malonza, has expressed deep concern over the rising cases of insecurity in Kitui County, citing recent killings in Kitui Town and Tseikuru as alarming and unacceptable.
In a media statement seen by Hopkin Digital, Malonza said that in less than a month, Kitui Town has recorded the killing of at least four women under circumstances suggesting a worrying pattern of gender-based violence and possible femicide. She noted that the incidents have instilled fear among residents and raised serious concerns about the safety of women and the effectiveness of current security measures.
She also pointed to a separate incident in Tseikuru, where seven people were reportedly killed in an attack allegedly linked to armed herders. According to Malonza, the attack highlights the growing threat posed by armed groups and the vulnerability of communities in arid and semi-arid regions.
While acknowledging the intervention by William Samoei Ruto, including the deployment of the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Malonza commended security agencies for their swift response. She also lauded the Directorate of Criminal Investigations for taking action against individuals accused of incitement.
However, the former CS warned that the incidents point to broader gaps in security coordination and response, calling for urgent and comprehensive action. She urged authorities to conduct thorough and transparent investigations, enhance security presence in affected areas, address gender-based violence, enforce disarmament among armed groups, and ensure regular communication with the public.
Malonza reaffirmed her confidence in the government’s ability to restore order, stating that the people of Kitui deserve safety, dignity, and peace. She also expressed solidarity with the victims and their families during what she described as a difficult period for the county.
Ends///
