Five Mandera chiefs, who were abducted by suspected Al Shabaab militants earlier this year, will receive state recognition for their resilience and dedication to public service, according to Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.
The chiefs were kidnapped in February and held in captivity for two months before their release. Despite the ordeal, they returned to their communities to continue serving. Speaking in Elwak during the Jukwaa la Usalama forum, Murkomen praised their courage as a symbol of commitment to duty and patriotism.
“These chiefs have shown exceptional bravery. Even after their traumatic experience, they chose to resume duty and stand with their people. The government will honour them for their sacrifice and service,” Murkomen stated.
To strengthen local administration in volatile areas, the CS revealed that chiefs and assistant chiefs facing significant security threats would be vetted, trained, and issued firearms. He stressed that this measure would apply only in high-risk regions affected by Al Shabaab attacks, clan conflicts, or banditry.
Murkomen also outlined progress in the country’s fight against terrorism, crediting the multi-agency approach adopted in 2016 for transforming security operations. He noted the major investments made by President William Ruto’s administration in the security sector.
“The current administration has advanced a comprehensive modernization program, which has significantly enhanced the capacity of our officers by equipping them with modern technology, protective gear, vehicles, and advanced weaponry that give them an edge over adversaries,” said the CS.
Beyond resources, Murkomen reiterated the crucial role of trust between citizens and security officers in defeating terrorism.
“The intelligence we receive from communities has been vital in thwarting terror plots. Victory against crime and terrorism cannot be achieved by the government alone; it requires unity between citizens and the state,” he said.
The recognition of the Mandera chiefs, he added, reflects the government’s broader commitment to safeguarding frontline administrators while strengthening the nation’s resilience against terrorism.
