Political leaders in Meru County have called on the national government to intensify security operations following increased cases of banditry and livestock theft.
Speaking at a joint address, Tigania West parliamentary aspirant and Democratic Party national chairman Peter Ndubai said herders in Buuri, Igembe and Tigania are facing repeated attacks in northern grazing areas.
“In other regions, we have witnessed decisive action and livestock returned to owners. Here, residents feel abandoned,” he said.
Ndubai urged authorities to arrest and prosecute those behind cattle rustling and killings, dismissing reports of dialogue with suspected bandits.
Former Athwana MCA Victor Karith criticised the handling of security operations, alleging excessive force in some instances and questioning the recovery of stolen livestock.
Jeremiah Mwaine, the Democratic Party chair for Tigania West, linked insecurity to rising cases of human-wildlife conflict, saying residents affected by elephant invasions in Kibiru and Kang’ethe are yet to be compensated.
“The operation on the ground has not inspired confidence. We need arrests and lasting solutions,” Mwaine said.
The leaders also called for political tolerance during the campaign period and urged the government to address the high cost of living and education challenges facing families in the county.
