Mandera Governor Mohamed Khalif sounded the alarm last week, saying: *“Children are skipping classes because families no longer feel safe. We need urgent answers from the national government before the situation worsens.”
Former Chief Justice David Maraga has described the presence of Jubaland troops as a violation of Kenya’s sovereignty. He criticised the government’s lack of transparency, noting that constitutional procedures must be followed in all matters of national security.
Maraga urged Parliament to demand a full explanation from the President, stating that the country deserves to know whether there exists any legal framework permitting foreign soldiers on Kenyan soil.
The Opposition has seized on the issue, with Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka branding the situation an outright invasion. “This is simple occupation, and that is why we want to call on the Commander-in-Chief, President Ruto himself, to explain what is happening,” he said. Kalonzo added that Kenya cannot enjoy stability until Somalia resolves its internal conflicts.
A section of legislators from Kiambu County has sought to ease tensions, insisting that the matter is under control. Speaking in Gatundu North, Kiambaa MP Njuguna Kawanjiku argued that Kenya has previously hosted foreign forces for training purposes, suggesting there may be existing relations with Jubaland.
The MPs pledged that Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya will be summoned before Parliament to give a comprehensive statement once plenary sessions resume.
The Kiambu lawmakers used the platform to highlight the importance of community policing. They called for stronger support for Nyumba Kumi officials, including the introduction of monthly stipends to sustain their work in linking residents with security agencies.
MP Simon King’ara said: “These grassroots operatives are critical to our safety. Their work helps prevent crime and build trust between citizens and security agencies.” The leaders further appealed for political tolerance, warning that the politicisation of national security and essential services risks undermining unity. “Kenya belongs to all of us. Political competition should not come at the expense of cohesion,” Gatundu North MP Njoroge Kururia stated.
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