Nguni MCA and Kitui County Assembly Deputy Minority Leader, Hon. Jeremiah Mutua, today appeared before the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) to answer charges of incitement related to the escalating conflict between the Kamba community and Somali pastoralists. The conflict, largely driven by disputes over grazing lands along the Kitui-Tana River borderline, has resulted in increased tensions and violence in the region.
Several Kitui leaders, including former Governor Hon. Charity Kaluki Ngilu, Mwingi Central MP Hon. Gideon Mulyungi, Kitui County Speaker Hon. Kelvin Kinengo, Miambani MCA and Minority Leader Hon. Alex Nganga, and Matinyani MCA Hon. Sylvester Kitheka, who also serves as Minority Whip, accompanied Mutua to the NCIC offices as he responded to the summons.
The leaders expressed their unwavering support for Mutua and emphasized their commitment to safeguarding the security of Kitui residents. They highlighted the severe impact the ongoing clashes between the Kamba community and Somali camel herders have had on local populations, particularly along the volatile Kitui-Tana River border.
The violence, driven by competition over pasture and water resources, has displaced numerous residents, leaving homes abandoned, and children unable to attend school due to safety concerns.
During the NCIC proceedings, Kitui County Speaker Hon. Kelvin Kinengo presented a formal complaint to both the NCIC and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) regarding Mutua’s arrest.
The MCA had been apprehended by law enforcement during a church service on 8th September 2024, an incident that Kinengo described as “unwarranted and an overreach.” Kinengo expressed his dissatisfaction with the way the arrest was handled and threatened to pursue legal action if investigations into the matter are not immediately initiated.
The appearance of the Nguni MCA at the NCIC offices comes amidst growing calls from Kamba leaders, regardless of political affiliation, to unite and find a lasting solution to the conflict between their community and the Somali pastoralists. The ongoing insecurity in the region has left many people displaced and fearful, with community members calling for stronger government intervention to restore peace and stability.
With no resolution yet in sight, Kitui leaders continue to advocate for the protection of their people while pushing for a peaceful end to the conflict that has gripped Mwingi and the surrounding areas.
