Kalonzo urges calm after Tseikuru killings, warns against retaliation

Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has called for restraint and dialogue following the killing of seven people in Tseikuru, describing the incident as painful and deeply troubling.

“What happened in Tseikuru is painful, unacceptable, and deeply troubling. Seven lives lost in broad daylight is not just a tragedy, it is a wake-up call to all of us,” Kalonzo said.

He cautioned communities against revenge attacks, urging them to prioritise peace despite the anger and grief

“Retaliatory attacks must stop immediately. Revenge will not bring back those we have lost. It will only deepen the wounds and push us further into a cycle of violence that benefits no one,” he added.

Kalonzo commended Kitui Governor Julius Malombe and Garissa Governor Nathif Jama Adam for working together to seek a solution, alongside Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua and Garissa Senator Abdul Haji, who are meeting to address the crisis.

He also urged elders from both communities to engage in dialogue, stressing that lasting peace will come through understanding and leadership at the grassroots level.

"I encourage wazee from both communities to come together, sit down, and speak openly, because lasting peace will come from dialogue, understanding, and leadership at the community level," he said.

"I remain in communication with leaders from both sides, ready to join them on the ground in Mwingi so we can sit together with all stakeholders and find a lasting solution to this crisis."

The remarks come as the government deployed specialised security teams to Tseikuru and neighbouring Ukasi following the attacks that heightened tension in the area.

Elite units, including the General Service Unit and Rapid Deployment Unit, have been sent to boost security and escort vehicles along the Mwingi–Garissa Road as investigations continue.

The NPS said the incidents were isolated acts carried out by a few individuals and should not be used to divide communities that have coexisted peacefully for years.

“We must be unequivocal: these are isolated criminal acts perpetrated by a few individuals within our communities,” the statement read.

Police said the attacks had caused anxiety among residents but emphasised that the suspects do not represent any community, clan or family.

Investigative and intelligence teams have also been dispatched and are pursuing leads to track down the perpetrators.

“We are closing in on these suspects, with the objective of apprehending them swiftly and ensuring they face the full force of the law,” the statement said, adding that security agencies will work to ensure those responsible are held accountable through due process.

The police appealed to residents of Tseikuru, Ukasi and neighbouring areas to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities as operations continue.