Muhoroni MP James Onyango Koyoo address the press during subcounty security meeting following clashes where one person was killed on Sunday/Faith Matete

Muhoroni MP James Koyoo  has called on the government to step in quickly, seek justice for the victims, and boost security after deadly clashes linked to a land dispute in Muhoroni Sub-county.

The violence involved members of the Koguta community and workers from Muhoroni Sugar Company, resulting in one death and several injuries.

Read Also
Red hot Omanyala to orchestrate Kenya's 4x100m charge at World Relays today Athletics
Cup pressure peaks as Shabana host Kenya Police in blockbuster quarter-final Football
Upper Hill coach Walgwe unperturbed despite drawing giants in Prescott Cup group phase Rugby

The person who died was 50-year-old Paul Opudo Chimbole, who left behind a young family. After the incident, Koyoo urged officials to hold those responsible accountable and make sure the affected families get help.

“This isn’t about ethnic conflict. It’s a disagreement between the Koguta people and management at Muhoroni Sugar Company. We want justice for the ones who died and those hurt,” he said.

Enjoying this article? Subscribe for unlimited access to premium sports coverage.
View Plans

He also called for better security in the area to stop more violence and help neighbouring communities live peacefully.

“The government should send enough security forces to keep peace and protect people’s lives. Residents need to feel safe while this issue is handled,” Koyoo added.

Several people hurt in the clashes, including Alfred Okoth, Joseph Otieno, Meshak Ambasa, and Chris Henry, are now getting medical care.

Koyoo asked the Ministry of Lands to solve the long-standing dispute and make sure the Koguta community can settle on their land.

He stressed the importance of dialogue between the community and the sugar company.

“The management of Muhoroni Sugar Company should talk with the community calmly if they want to use the land. Using force isn’t the way,” he said.

After the clash, local leaders held an emergency security meeting on Monday that included community members, government officials, and sugar company representatives to reduce tensions.

Koyoo said the meeting, led by Muhoroni Deputy County Commissioner Abdihakim Jubat, decided to keep things as they are while talks continue.

“We agreed that the community should keep the current situation while dialogue goes on. This conflict isn’t ethnic; it’s between the Koguta community and the sugar company,” he explained.

Deputy County Commissioner Abdihakim Jubat confirmed investigations into Chimbole’s death are still in progress, and police are chasing suspects.

“The person who killed Mr. Chimbole will be arrested and charged. We ask the Koguta community and their neighbours to stay calm,” he said.

Officials have also warned against framing the violence as ethnic conflict.

The clashes come from a legal dispute over land parcels L.R. No. 3977 and 3978. Recently, the Environment and Land Court in Kisumu ordered that the current situation remain unchanged until the case is decided.

The sugar company, however, says it has legal rights to the land based on a government-approved lease connected to efforts to revive the sugar industry.

Koyoo urged calm again and encouraged residents to stay peaceful while the government seeks a lasting solution. Ends....