The government will deal firmly with leaders engaging in incitement, without regard to their political stature or affiliation, Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen has said.

Speaking on Sunday at Africa at Nuru Africa Inland Church in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County, the CS asked county security teams to crack down on politicians engaging in violence and ethnic division.

“We are committed to ensuring a peaceful and secure nation for all and will not be threatened by anyone thinking we will spare them because of their position,” he said.

“As a leader, you are elected alone. Why move around with goons of up to 50 disturbing the peace of others, including at funerals?" he posed.

The county has recently come under the spotlight due to a surge in violence and gang-related activities, allegedly fueled by various political leaders.

These incidents have led to the disruption of several funeral ceremonies and other public events, raising concerns among residents and authorities.

The interior CS has reiterated the government's firm stance on maintaining peace and promoting respectful political engagement.

"We want to embrace the politics of decency, where everyone can speak freely and return to their families without fear of harm from hired goons,” the CS stated.

He issued a stern warning to national leaders promoting ethnic division, emphasizing that security agencies will not hesitate to take decisive action.

“There are those threatening our peace, thinking they are untouchable, thinking they are above the law because of their former senior positions in government,” he said.

“Under my watch, we will not condone anyone who seeks to burn down our nation. We will do everything under the sun to keep our country safe.”

Murkomen was accompanied by Trans Nzoia Senator Allan Chesang, along with local religious and political leaders who echoed his sentiments

“It is sad that a seed of ethnic division is being planted in our villages. Trans Nzoia is a cosmopolitan county; leaders should avoid politics that divide communities along tribal lines,” Sitatunga MCA Simon Murei said.

The government has made it clear that it will not tolerate politically instigated violence or ethnic incitement.

As calls for peace and unity grow louder, leaders and citizens alike are being urged to uphold the spirit of coexistence and reject any attempts to destabilize the country.