Leaders in Kisumu County, led by Governor Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o, have issued a strong condemnation of recent insecurity incidents, warning that escalating lawlessness could erode investor confidence and derail economic progress in the lakeside city.
Speaking on Monday, April 13, following a high-level consultative meeting in Kisumu, the county’s collective leadership, including the County Executive, Members of Parliament, Members of the County Assembly, and the County Security Committee, said urgent measures are needed to restore order.
The leaders noted that Kisumu, widely regarded as a premier investment hub and gateway to the Lake Region Economic Bloc, risks losing its reputation as a safe and vibrant destination.
“The recent wave of lawlessness threatens to undermine economic progress and investor confidence,” the leaders said in a joint statement.
They strongly condemned attacks targeting private property and businesses, specifically citing incidents at Fairways Hotel, Kisumu, and Java House West End Mall.
“These acts of hooliganism are not only criminal but a direct assault on the livelihoods of our people,” the statement read.
While reaffirming the county government’s role as a development partner, the leaders emphasized that the primary responsibility for security rests with the National Government. They called on the Ministry of Interior and National Administration to act decisively.
“We urge the Ministry to deploy comprehensive intelligence and enforcement measures to identify and dismantle criminal gangs masquerading as political supporters,” the leaders said.
They further demanded swift and impartial action against those behind the attacks.
“The security apparatus must act with speed and impartiality to arrest and prosecute the masterminds, regardless of their social or political standing,” they added.
The leaders also sought to reassure investors and the business community, insisting that Kisumu remains open and secure for business.
“We will not allow a few individuals to tarnish our image. We reassure both local and foreign investors that we are united in purging these elements from our society,” the statement said.
At the same time, they urged young people to resist being exploited for criminal activities.
“We urge the youth of Kisumu to resist being used as tools for destruction and instead embrace the economic opportunities being created within the county,” the leaders stated.
Reaffirming their commitment, the leaders pledged full cooperation with security agencies to restore calm.
“The peace and stability of Kisumu are non-negotiable,” they declared.
