The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Tension is gradually subsiding in Angata Barrikoi Ward, Transmara South Sub-county, after violent clashes on Monday left five people dead and several others, including five police officers, injured.
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The unrest broke out as residents protested a land demarcation exercise involving a disputed 6,800-acre tract in the Moyoi Adjudication Section. Officials from the Ministry of Lands, escorted by police, attempted to begin surveying the land, sparking opposition from locals who claim ancestral ownership and cite unresolved historical injustices.
The standoff escalated into a violent confrontation when the crowd became aggressive, prompting police to respond with force, leading to multiple casualties.
Area MCA Joseph Koech reported that the situation has since stabilized, with additional security deployed to maintain order. He called on both national and county governments to expedite peaceful conflict resolution to prevent further violence.
In the aftermath, Narok Governor Patrick ole Ntutu, County Commissioner Kipkech Lotiatia, and senior security officers visited the area to assess the situation and reassure the community. Governor Ntutu pledged that the county would cover the funeral costs for the deceased and hospital expenses for the injured.
“We grieve with the families affected. Violence cannot be the answer—dialogue and justice must guide the way forward,” said Governor Ntutu.
National attention has also turned to the region. Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja is expected to tour the area to review police conduct and reinforce the need for restraint. Meanwhile, Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot and other Kipsigis leaders plan to visit the community to support peace-building efforts.
Community elders and peace advocates are urging a swift stakeholders’ dialogue to address the deeper causes of the dispute. Demands for transparent adjudication, equitable compensation, and inclusive consultation processes have dominated local discussions.
The Moyoi land row is among several long-standing boundary disputes in the greater Trans Mara region, with growing pressure on leaders to find a lasting solution and prevent future flare-ups.
