Kisii and Nyamira Governors Ordered to Resolve Keroka Town Service Access Dispute

KISII – In a bid to quell tensions in Keroka town, situated on the border between Kisii and Nyamira counties, Environment and Land Court Judge Mugo Kamau has mandated Kisii Governor Simba Arati and Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo to collaborate and formulate a plan for peaceful coexistence and service access for the town’s residents. This directive was issued on Tuesday at the Nyamira High Court in response to early March incidents involving police interventions to manage clashes between traders and revenue collection officers from the two counties, stemming from a border dispute.

According to Kenya News Agency, the boundary dispute has been conclusively resolved with the help of a comprehensive survey report by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and the National Land Commission (NLC). This report precisely delineated the boundary along Keroka society, Ondoro area, and the first Keroka backstreet behind Jamuhuri leading to Gucha hospital. Judge Mugo emphasized the necessity for revenue officers from both counties to adhere strictly to these defined boundaries for revenue collection purposes.

Furthermore, Judge Mugo ordered police commanders from both Kisii and Nyamira to ensure that traders can coexist peacefully, conducting their business without the fear of violence or unexpected confrontations. The judge’s ruling aims to secure a harmonious environment in Keroka town, enabling residents and traders to carry out their daily activities safely.

The conclusion of the court session outlined a follow-up mechanism, with the two governors expected to report back to the court within 21 days on the progress of their efforts to ensure peace and security in Keroka town. This meeting is also to address the next steps in a contempt of court matter related to this dispute.