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Friday, July 14, 2023 –Most Kenyans have urged authorities to move with speed at calm the rising tension between Luos and Kalenjins at Sondu area, Kisumu-Kericho border.
So far, death toll has been reported to have hit two persons as scores injured in the clashes happening at the border.
Another source who spoke to us reported that a deputy principal from a local school had been shot dead by arrow-wielding young men.
Further reliable sources and authorities said the dispute was inflamed by the ongoing anti-government protests.
Nonetheless, authorities are currently working all round the clock to end the animosity which was escalating wide into the Kisumu area.
From Thursday this week, young men were seen carrying poisoned arrows manning the border with injuries recorded; now entering the third day.
Those who were injured in the attacks are currently admitted in various local facilities as police take vigil to maintain peace.
Kericho County Governor Erick Mutai attributed the problem to Azimio-allied politicians from the area.
“We condemn in the strongest terms the acts of anarchy and violence perpetrated on innocent business people especially those who come from communities not supporting demonstrations, ” he claimed.
But on the other hand, Azimio-allies have claimed that the clashes were sponsored by the State so that to pile the blame on the opposition.
“It is appalling that people in Nyanza are being butchered and many others maimed by their overzealous armed neighbours and the PS for Security is busy organizing a JAMBOREE to celebrate his appointment. As a Christian it is heartening,” Philip Etale commented in reference to Raymond Omollo.
But shortly, PS Omollo came out to outline the speedy measures the government was undertaking to restore sanity.
This is not the first time clashes are erupting in the area. The fights have severally taken place along the border hence threatening peace and lives of innocent locals.
The ownership of the area being key among the reasons the two communities have been fighting.
For example, Kericho County residents bordering Kisumu have laid claim to some towns and centres, claiming the boundaries should be redrawn to return some towns and centres to Kericho.
Kericho also claim Sondu area belongs to them; but according to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission IEBC, this area is in Kisumu County.
More towns in this debate include Muhoroni, Chemelil, Kibos, Miwani, Koru and Kopere which are not clear whether they are in Nandi, Kericho or Kisumu Counties.
