The summons, issued under the direction of Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, comes amid growing concern among lawmakers over a deteriorating security situation marked by politically instigated violence and persistent livestock raids in several regions.
Members of Parliament are expected to press the Interior Ministry to outline concrete measures to restore order, curb the use of organised youth groups to disrupt political activities, and contain banditry, which continues to undermine livelihoods in vulnerable counties.
Speaking on the floor of the House on Thursday, Committee Chairperson Gabriel Tongoyo acknowledged the severity of the situation but urged patience ahead of a comprehensive ministerial statement.
“I do not want to pre-empt the minister’s response, but I want to assure the country that security agencies are actively addressing the situation,” he said, noting improved calm in parts of the North Rift while flagging emerging concerns in Meru and other areas.
While directing the appearance, Speaker Wetang’ula called on MPs to use the forum to present their concerns directly.
“When the minister appears before you, members with issues… go before the committee and prosecute your case,” he said.
The urgency of the matter was underscored by Samburu County Woman Rep. Pauline Lenguris, who detailed a recent attack in Samburu County in which armed bandits killed a resident and drove away more than 700 livestock.
“These incidents continue to disrupt livelihoods and heighten fear among communities,” she told the House, calling for immediate security interventions and long-term solutions to cross-border cattle rustling.
Lawmakers from across the country painted a grim picture of a security apparatus struggling to contain banditry despite ongoing operations.
Turkana Central MP Joseph Namuar Emathe questioned the effectiveness of the Special Operations Group deployed in volatile areas, saying attacks persist even with security personnel on the ground.
Similarly, Igembe Central lawmaker Daniel Karitho said cattle rustlers continue to strike with impunity despite heightened operations, while Patrick Osero highlighted logistical challenges facing the Anti-Stock Theft Unit, citing inadequate vehicles and equipment.
Member of Parliament for Samburu East Jackson Lekumontare warned that cattle rustling is becoming normalised, with little follow-up to recover stolen livestock or support affected families.
Debate in the House also exposed tensions between communities, with some MPs linking livestock theft to cross-county routes, while others cautioned against ethnic profiling.
Kilgoris MP Julius Sunkuli warned against blaming specific communities, noting that banditry cuts across ethnic lines and should not be politicised.
“This is not just a pastoralist issue, it is a national issue,” said Fatuma Jehow, as she highlighted significant livestock losses in her constituency.
Other lawmakers, including Naomi Waqo, echoed similar concerns, underscoring the widespread nature of the crisis.
The debate reflected mounting frustration among MPs, with some accusing security agencies of failing to act decisively despite intelligence on banditry networks.
