The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has issued a formal condemnation of the “Operation Maliza Uhalifu” security initiative in the North Rift Region. While the Commission supports the government’s goal of disarmament, it reports a disturbing trend of extra-judicial means and the targeted killing of livestock by multi-agency security officers.
The Commission’s monitoring reveals that the North Rift continues to be plagued by recurrent banditry attacks, resulting in widespread violations of the rights to life, education, and personal security. Vulnerable populations, specifically women, children, and the elderly, are disproportionately affected by the displacement and loss of essential services.
Of particular concern is the Turkwel Belt, including Takaywa, Kainuk, Ompolion, and Kakong, where banditry and cattle rustling have intensified despite the ongoing disarmament exercise.
On January 26, 2026, the KNCHR documented the alleged killing of livestock in the Silale area by the Special Operations Group (SOG). The reported losses include:
- 70+ Cattle
- 10 Camels
- 50 Goats
For these pastoralist communities, livestock is the primary source of livelihood. The Commission noted that these losses, combined with the adverse effects of climate change and drought, have devastating socio-economic consequences.
Furthermore, the KNCHR uncovered reports of:
- Excessive use of force against civilians and local officials (including chiefs).
- Destruction of property in Riongo, Naudo, and Silale.
- Closure of marketplaces and water points in Nginyang and Silale.
The Commission highlighted a “culture of silence,” noting that many residents have not filed formal reports due to a profound fear of reprisals from security forces.
Underscoring Article 19(2) of the Constitution of Kenya, which mandates the protection of human dignity and social justice, the KNCHR has issued a six-point “Call to Action”:
- Holistic Security Approach: Security teams must ensure unimpeded access to education, healthcare, and water while disarming criminal elements.
- Respect for Property: Security operations must not be used as a “license to unleash punishment” or violate Articles 40 (Property) and 29 (Security of person).
- Root Cause Analysis: Regional heads must identify the sponsors of banditry and seal loopholes in illegal firearm supplies.
- Community Cooperation: Local residents are encouraged to support disarmament and report attacks promptly.
- Oversight and Transparency: The government must facilitate a human-rights-based approach, allowing monitoring by agencies like KNCHR and IPOA.
- Compensation: The government should provide restitution to civilians whose livestock were killed or property destroyed.