Kamama bows to pressure, says he'll quit security committee

Parliamentary Security Committee chairman Asman Kamama. (Photo: Moses Omusula/Standard)

Embattled Tiaty MP Asman Kamama has announced that he will relinquish his position as the Parliamentary National Security Committee chairman.

This follows mounting pressure from leaders and residents in the banditry riddled Kerio valley for him to quit the powerful docket.

Critics have accused Mr Kamama of being an impediment to peace and security in the volatile region. Others blamed him for inaction and insincerity in dealing with the vice that has shattered lives and livelihoods in the semi-arid region.

Kamama has denied all these claims, insisting he has no control over security personnel in the region. He has also distanced himself from cattle rustling and the accompanying bandit attacks that have left scores of people dead, many more maimed and thousands displaced.

Baringo Senator Gideon Moi was the latest high ranking leader to challenge Kamama to relinquish the seat, saying the MP's continued stay would scuttle the ongoing security operation in the region.

Illegal herders

"The operation will not be effective with the legislator still in charge of the committee. Kamama has done nothing to address insecurity in Baringo and if he is allowed to continue chairing the committee, he will compromise the operation to flush out bandits and illegal herders," said Senator Moi.

Kamama now says he has written to National Assembly Majority Leader Aden Duale informing him of his intention to relinquish his position in the House committee.

Mr Duale, speaking to the Press in Garissa town over the weekend, confirmed that Kamama had agreed to relinquish the position.

Speaking to The Standard by phone, Kamama insisted that he is not to blame for the current insecurity crisis in his area.

"I have been unfairly accused of the insecurity menace in Kerio valley. Let it be clear that all along I have been at the forefront in spearheading peace and development in the region," he said.