County security team, peace actors change approach in tackling violence during electioneering period

Nakuru County has long been viewed as a potential flashpoint for electoral violence.

In the words of the County Commissioner, Loyford Kibaara, the region dictates how the rest of the counties behave and is “looked at as a hotspot of a likelihood of violence” during election periods, a reputation earned through past experiences of conflict.

But authorities are working to change that narrative ahead of the upcoming general election.

Through a multisectoral coordination and collaboration forum that involves the county and sub-county security intelligence committees, state and non-state actors, Nakuru is bringing together all stakeholders, with a particular focus on engaging young people in early warning systems and information sharing about conflict incidents within the county.

“We must work on the symptoms early; we may not be able to manage it if things were to escalate, and we intend to do it deliberately and inclusively,” says Kibaara, explaining how the early warning system works. “When we receive information from the ground about tensions or potential flashpoints, we immediately convene the relevant stakeholders to address the issue through dialogue before it escalates.”

He says they want to work on early warning systems decisively, and if they require enforcement or community dialogue to address any security challenges they identify as they move forward.

“We want to work closely with the members of the public so that from the village level to the county level we can adequately address all the emerging issues,” says Kibaara, adding that they will not entertain fuellers of violence who have been warned and that the law will take its course.

Leonard Githae, the Deputy Executive Director of Midrift Hurinet, emphasizes that everyone has a role to play in peace and security.

“We need to work together so that we realize peace, safety, and security within our communities. We are also looking ahead towards preparing for a very peaceful election,” he says, noting the significant youth representation at the forum, to strengthen collaboration for increased reporting and information sharing as an early warning response.

He urges the youth to register as voters, insisting that change can only happen if they partake in the voting process.