Government to Review Existing 6 AM to 6 PM Curfew in Turkana
The national government has announced plans to review the controversial daytime curfew that has been in effect in parts of Turkana County, a measure initially imposed to curb rampant banditry. Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo stated that the security committee is assessing the impact of the dawn-to-dusk curfew, acknowledging the significant socio-economic disruption it has caused for residents. The curfew, which restricted movement between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., was one of the most drastic measures implemented in the region’s ongoing security operation.
The directive, while aimed at flushing out bandits and recovering illegal weapons, brought normal life and commerce to a standstill in affected areas. Markets were closed, travel was prohibited, and humanitarian activities were severely hampered, drawing criticism from local leaders, human rights groups, and residents who argued the punishment was collective and disproportionately affected innocent civilians. The review signals a recognition by the government of the measure’s severe consequences on livelihoods.
PS Omollo indicated that any revisions to the curfew would be based on a thorough security assessment of the current situation on the ground. The government’s goal remains the restoration of lasting peace, but it is now seeking a more balanced approach that safeguards both security and the economic well-being of the people of Turkana. The announcement offers a glimmer of hope to residents who have been pleading for a return to normalcy, as the state weighs the operational necessity of the curfew against the fundamental rights and daily needs of the local population.