Joseph Nkaissery must inspire, unite us against terror

The new Cabinet Secretary for Interior and Co-ordination of National Government, Joseph Nkaissery, a retired Major-General, has assumed office at a critical period in Kenya’s history. There is heightened fear of attacks from terror groups and other criminals as ordinary Kenyans appear sharply divided on what should be done to stem insecurity.

The passing of the Security Laws (Amendment) Act, 2014, amid acrimony in Parliament, has elicited mixed reactions from Kenyans, with support for the new law coming largely from Jubilee strongholds, and sharp criticism from civil society groups, the Opposition CORD and the media fraternity. The laws have, therefore, further deepened the political fissures, which need urgent healing.