Mudavadi, Kenneth call for quick action to restore security

Former presidential candidate Peter Kenneth. [PHOTO: FILE]

Nairobi, Kenya:  Former Deputy Prime Minister Musalia Mudavadi has challenged the government to set up commission of inquiry on security apparatus.

The request comes few hours after gunmen attacked Mpeketoni town in Lamu County killing over 40 people and destroying properties.

“After the Westgate murder and a proliferation of sporadic IED deaths, Kenyans gave the Government the benefit of doubt on efforts to secure the country. But the Mpeketoni incursion confirms that decisive action is urgent to correct our security apparatus that is ailing and horridly malfunctioning,” said Mudavadi.

“As an urgent long-term measure, President Uhuru Kenyatta should appoint a independent commission of inquiry to probe operations of security structures’ with the sole objective of recommending an overhaul.”

Mudavadi noted that the participation of County governments’ role in security is provided for in law. He said National Government administration at county level should not be to compete or check-mate County Governments. “Security must be a shared responsibility. National government must now move from intent to operationalise involvement of county government in security management.”

Some of the questions Mudavadi wants to be raised by the commission includes Who is sleeping on the job? Is it lack of coordination of security agencies, sabotage from within through counter-insurgence and corruption? Is there no security detachment against terror stationed in Lamu that could respond in real-time?  In the context of recent debilitating travel advisories; why was this attack not anticipated through intelligence?

Peter Kenneth a Former Presidential candidate said the attack on Mpeketoni is a reminder to all Kenyans that the level of insecurity in the country has reached intolerable levels.

“With the increasing frequency and gravity of attacks, rising levels of crime and the failure of our security organs to guarantee Kenyans of their security is evident. In the past, we have heard strong statements on security after every attack. Unfortunately, these statements are often not followed by commensurate action. As I have stated before, strong words must be followed by tough action. This is often not the case and this attack is clear evidence of the continued failure of our security organs to live up to our expectations.”