By Robert Kiplagat and Karanja Njoroge

Fourteen schools have been closed in Baringo County with over 2,000 pupils dropping out to due to insecurity.

The schools have been indefinitely closed after families fled their homes with their children due to heightened cattle rustling and banditry attacks.

Kenya National Union Of Teachers (Knut) Baringo branch Executive Secretary Charles Kamuren said education in the area had been paralysed.

“Education for these children is now compromised, how will they compete with other children who have been in class for the last three weeks?” asked Kamuren.

The schools that have been closed include Chemoe, Katuro, Boruyo, Yatya, Kalabata, Rondinin, Katuro, Tuluk, Chepkesin, Sbiolo, Loruk and Kagir primary schools.

resign

At the same time, area MP William Cheptumo wants Internal security Minister George Saitoti and Commissioner of Police Mathew Iteere to resign for failing to contain clashes between the two communities.

Cheptumo, who is also Justice and Constitutional Affairs assistant minister, said: “If Kenyans are dying and you have been mandated to protect them and failed you have no business being in office and you should resign immediately.”

The MP asked the Government to arm the residents through the Kenya Police Reservists to enable them keep off the raiders. 

He said leaders from both communities early last week held a meeting at the Rift Valley Provincial Commissioner’s office in a bid to end the skirmishes and foster unity between the two communities.

peace

Church leaders in Baringo County have also called for peace and reconciliation between the warring Tugen and Pokot communities, which have left seven people dead and over 10,000 displaced.

The clergy led by Full Gospel Churches of Kenya, Baringo branch Bishop Daniel Chemon, pointed an accusing finger at the Government for failing to beef up security.

Bishop Chemon said the Government should take action and carry out a disarmament exercise.

The bishop, who is also the Baringo Central District community policing chairman, demanded that Internal Security Minister George Saitoti visits the area to ascertain the situation himself.

He lashed out at the Government for ignoring the plight of insecurity in Baringo North District.