Security Agencies Accused of Bias in Isiolo-Samburu Herders Conflict
Local leaders and community representatives from Isiolo County have accused security agencies of taking sides and exhibiting clear bias in handling the persistent conflict between herders from Isiolo and Samburu. The leaders allege that the state security apparatus has been disproportionately targeting one community during disarmament exercises and security operations, thereby exacerbating tensions rather than fostering peace.
The accusations were leveled during a peace forum, where it was claimed that the biased enforcement has led to a sense of victimization and injustice, fueling further resentment and retaliatory attacks. The leaders presented instances where they said security forces from one county were prevented from pursuing cattle rustlers across the administrative border into the neighboring county, creating safe havens for criminals.
Calls have been made for an impartial, joint security team comprising officers from neutral regions to oversee the conflict zone. The leaders are demanding a review of the security strategy to ensure it is balanced and fair to all communities involved. The allegations of bias threaten to undermine the trust in state institutions that is crucial for resolving the long-standing resource-based conflict.