Govt call for peaceful co-existence in Laikipia

Following destruction to private property and escalating cases of livestock theft in Laikipia, residents have been urged to respect the rule of law and respect other people’s property.

Laikipia West Deputy County Commissioner, Joel Cherop, has said there was need for the residents to live in peace and in a conducive environment.

His sentiments come in the wake of confrontations over graze-land between pastoralists and ranchers in Laikipia as the herders drive in livestock to the ranches in search of pasture and water.

Speaking at a public meeting in Rumuruti Town, Mr Cherop noted that without peace, no development projects can take place in the area and hence urged the various communities living in the county to embrace peaceful co-existence.

The administrator added that the government was committed to ensure the safety of the people living in the region and that more security officers have been deployed to beef up security.

He challenged pastoralists to seek permission from the locals while seeking pasture to avert unnecessary conflict as has been the case.

The Deputy County Commissioner also said the government was firm and committed to drive back illegal grazers who have invaded private ranches.

He said that should they fail to vacate the area voluntarily, the government would use force to evict them.

He also ordered that grazers who were illegally living in privately owned land to vacate with immediate effect.

Written by Erick Kombo