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.

The new Security CS received overwhelming support from Kenyans on numerous platforms, including the social media. The fact that he is from the Opposition’s CORD also means he must have inspired huge confidence in President Uhuru Kenyatta and his ruling Jubilee coalition. We can, therefore, say his mandate is wide and he enjoys immense goodwill. Still, the former military man, who is also a former assistant minister, comes across as a no-nonsense administrator who does not suffer fools gladly. Corrupt and lazy officials in the security docket must either shape up or ship out immediately. Kenyans have suffered insecurity for too long.

His sense of duty and sharp military precision are also greatly needed in a country reeling from rising insecurity and seemingly being intimidated by terror attacks. His first duty is, therefore, to restore Kenyans’ confidence in our security agencies. The CS must assure Kenyans and those visiting the country that they are secure to go about their duties without worry.

After recent dastardly Al Shabaab attacks in Mandera County, where over 60 Kenyans were shot dead, Kenyans are bound to fear venturing out of their ‘home’ counties. Indeed, majority of civil servants, including teachers from other counties, have threatened to resign from their posts in Mandera and other troubled counties. Nkaissery must convince these Kenyans that their security is guaranteed.

The minister should also deliberately weed out corrupt elements in the police and other security apparatus. Of major concern are the officers manning border points who have been accused of receiving bribes to look the other way as terrorists enter the country with their weapons. The CS must shuffle the officers, read the riot act, and tell them it will not be business as usual from now on.

Terrorism is a global and complex challenge, which Kenyans must confront, since we have paid with our lives on several occasions. We have also lost livelihoods in dozens of terror attacks. Today, tourism is on its knees as foreign tourists keep away from various destinations, especially at the coast, and Kenyans tour cautiously.

Despite this being the Christmas and end of year festivities, few holiday destinations are doing booming business. This should change, Nkaissery. We deserve a better lifestyle, not one informed by fear and despondency. The National Police Service, which has for years not inspired praise from ordinary Kenyans, must change tack to win our hearts.

The CS must carry through positive Police reforms and in the process have Kenyans support their efforts to rid the country of criminal elements. Nkaissery should, for instance, breathe much-needed life into the Nyumba Kumi initiative, which is meant to have Kenyans help the police arrest criminals and terrorists. Security is everyone’s responsibility, but the minister must take the lead. His actions and pronouncements must send a cold chill down the spines of criminals and those who wish to harm us.

Finally, Nkaissery must initiate new strategies and policies to fight terrorism and emerging forms of crime. Military approach to terror has not yielded much in the fight against a brain-washed group willing to give up their lives for an unjust course. The CS may probably help unearth the reasons Kenyan youths are being radicalised and eventually recruited into murderous gangs.

Have a happy and safe new year!