EALA MP Florence Jamaita who has since defected to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) associated with Deputy President William Ruto says it is time Baringo residents and bodaboda riders in the county acquired guns against Pokot bandits who continue to raid Baringo homes without remorse.
”Tunataka pay bill we controbute tununua bunduki. Mimi najitolea kuwasaidia kununua bunduki. Kama uko na pikipiki unaweza nunua bunduki. Hio kitu tutanegotiate bei ishuke,” the legislator, also eying the county Woman Rep seat said in Baringo central at a meeting with local administration.
The MP’s remarks have come under sharp criticism from leaders of the Pokot Community, among them Majority Leader in the National Assembly Samuel Poghision, who has described them as inciting the people of Baringo against the Pokots.
”This is a member of the E. A Legislative Assembly inviting citizens in Baringo to buy guns and ammunition. Hon. Jematia has stooped too low. Literally inciting them against the Pokot. I wish to caution leaders not to try and get elected by such reckless statements,” the West Pokot senator tweeted on Monday evening.
Last month, West Pokot Governor John Lonyangapuo warned that the bandits who had been involved in a wave of attacks in Kerio Valey would be named and handed to security agencies.
“Anyone with an illegal gun should be disarmed. Sadly, an attack is ongoing at a time when we are praying for peace,” Governor Lonyangapuo said.
