CS Kindiki: Ruto committed to ending banditry, even if it means losing political support

Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Prof. Kithure Kindiki says President William Ruto is committed to ending the banditry menace in North Rift region by all means, even if it means losing his political support.

"I have the support of the President to deliver the country from this shame. The future economy of this country will be attained by stabilising the North Rift... President Ruto has told me he is willing to lose political support and end this problem," Prof. Kindiki says.

Speaking before Senate Committee on National Cohesion on Wednesday, March 1, Prof. Kindiki alleged that some local politicians have so far being linked to banditry in the volatile region.

"Politicians are in the middle of this game. I am aware I will fall out with some in this practice. It will be very brutal," the CS told the committee.

'I'll remain non-partisan'

He affirmed that he would remain non-partisan in executing his mandate.

"I have the support of the President to deal ruthlessly with leaders whether in his party and opposition. I will not be drawn into the politics of Kenya Kwanza or the opposition. You have seen me steer off politics."

In response to question on extent of their operation, Prof. Kindiki stated that talks were ongoing with the Ugandan government on how the two countries can deal with those bandits who will escape Kenya and seek refuge in Uganda.

"Last week Interior PS Raymond Omollo held a high level meeting with Uganda's state officials including my counterpart and Minister of Karamajong affairs. All bandits who escape our borders will not come back," he added.

Apparently, the bandits had turned some parts of the escarpment into hiding spots, which have since been taken over by police.

On the issue of firearms, the CS stated that 43 guns with 136 rounds of ammunition had so far been surrendered voluntarily.

"I want to assure Kenyans we will mop up all guns in the North Rift. We will get the guns one way or the other. Don't ask me how."

The military and police officers who began their operation on February 16, will remain in the North Rift until normalcy returns.

"We won't retreat and we will populate that area with police officers to make sure that area become prosperous for years to come... Banditry will be taught in our schools as history."