Turkana leaders demand action after killings by Ethiopian militia

View of Todonyang mass graves along the Kenya -Ethiopia border on February 28, 2025. [Lucas Ngasike, Standard

Turkana leaders have condemned the recent killings of four locals by suspected Ethiopian militia, urging the national government to take urgent action to protect Kenyan citizens along the porous border.

This incident has reignited grievances over the government's failure to secure border communities.

Senator James Lomenen, Turkana North MP Paul Nabuin, and former Cabinet Secretary John Munyes spoke out during the burial of two brothers killed in the attack in Natira village.

Their deaths have sparked anger and frustration across Turkana County, a region struggling with insecurity.

Senator Lomenen criticized the Ministry of Interior for transferring disciplinary-challenged security officers to Turkana, emphasizing that locals deserve respect and competent security.

He stated, “Why is it that every officer with indiscipline is sent to Turkana? What does that say about us?” His call for an overhaul of the security structure was met with applause.

Munyes described the attack as a violation of Kenya’s territorial integrity, questioning why citizens are being killed on their soil and criticizing corrupt officers engaged in illegal activities.

He called for the transfer of these officers to restore public trust.

Nabuin also demanded urgent security reforms, labelling the attacks as acts of aggression. He highlighted the need for well-trained officers who understand the unique challenges of border communities.

A group of Turkana North professionals joined the leaders, issuing a 14-day ultimatum for the government to take meaningful action against insecurity.

They suggested relocating the Daasanach community back to Ethiopia to reduce tension and called for compensation for victims of cross-border attacks, emphasizing the need for justice and accountability in the face of ongoing violence.