Azimio calls for action over Sondu clashes, wants leaders probed

Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga addresses the press on Thursday, October 5 at Jaramogi Odinga foundation. [Edward Kiplimo, Standard]

The Azimio la Umoja Coalition now claims that violence witnessed in Sondu is as a result of instigated violence by some political leaders.

In a statement to newsrooms on Thursday, the Raila Odinga-led coalition has called for investigations against individuals it believes are financing the violence.

"Let’s make no mistake. The violence and mayhem in Sondu is not an ordinary disagreement between villagers. Big names are behind this violence," Azimio alleged.

Odinga further said that the clashes are brewing a distrust among residents in the area.

"We wish to assure the innocent residents of Sondu, from either side of the border, that we are in solidarity with them. We urge the residents to put down their arms and embrace each other as the brothers and sisters they have been all along.” 

"We also appeal to the residents to resist and reject those inciting them to acts of violence and lawlessness that bring no value to the actors and the victims," said Odinga.

The Opposition has called on the government to provide round-the-clock security to the residents and ensure perpetrators have been brought to book.

At the same time, Odinga has opposed the deployment of Kenyan officers to Haiti. He wants Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki summoned to Parliament to explain the decision. 

"Why are we sending our officers to Haiti to protect Haitians while the security situation at home is deteriorating and they are unable to protect lives and property of Kenyans in Sondu, North Rift, North Eastern and Lamu?" he posed.

Earlier in the week, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) adopted the resolution to send a Multinational Security mission to Haiti to help combat criminal gangs.

Kenya is taking lead on the mission, with plans to deploy 1,000 police officers.