Kitui Central MP Dr Makali Mulu has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in Kitui Town, warning that the recent wave of killings is instilling fear among residents and threatening the area’s business environment.
Speaking during the issuance of driving licences to 150 boda boda riders who benefited from a Kitui Central National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) programme, the MP said insecurity had reached alarming levels and called for urgent intervention by security agencies.
The beneficiaries received driving licences through a subsidised programme funded by the NG-CDF at a cost of KSh15,500 per rider, an initiative aimed at ensuring local boda boda operators are properly trained, licensed and compliant with road safety regulations.
While lauding the programme, Dr Mulu shifted focus to security, saying the recent killing of Kitui businessman Wambua Syengo on Saturday, coupled with the murders of at least five women over the past five months, had heightened fear among residents.
He said security agencies must move swiftly to establish the root causes of the killings and dismantle criminal networks responsible for the attacks.
“The issue of security has become a grave concern in Kitui. This is a matter we are taking very seriously, and our security agencies must get to the root cause of these incidents,” the MP said.
Dr Mulu noted that the worsening insecurity was affecting businesses, with traders increasingly fearing for their safety while conducting their daily activities.
“It should not reach a point where business people cannot operate freely because they fear for their lives. We must restore confidence and guarantee the safety of every resident,” he said.
The legislator also appealed to boda boda riders, who form one of the largest transport networks in the county, to partner with security agencies by sharing intelligence confidentially to help identify criminals.
He said the riders’ presence across villages, estates and trading centres places them in a strategic position to provide information that could help prevent crime and improve public safety.
Dr Mulu assured residents and the business community that leaders would continue engaging security agencies to ensure security is reinforced through enhanced operations and increased surveillance.
The remarks come amid growing public concern over a series of violent incidents in Kitui County, with residents increasingly calling for tougher security measures to stem the rising wave of crime and restore public confidence.
