This archive report was first published on 19 July 2019.
President Uhuru Kenyatta's administration has announced plans to set up 400 new police stations in the Rift Valley, a move that has sparked concerns about the region's growing political tensions.
According to leaked documents, the Rift Valley will have the highest number of police stations in the country, followed by Eastern with 348 stations and Nyanza with 251 stations.
The move comes amid a disquiet in Deputy President William Ruto's political turf in Rift Valley, following recent remarks by a section of Mt Kenya politicians that his presidential bid will not get automatic support from Central Kenya in 2022.
President Uhuru Kenyatta's administration has been accused of trying to protect its people facing 'threats' over its coldness towards Deputy President William Ruto, following the handshake between President Uhuru and Opposition leader Raila Odinga.
The Rift Valley council of elders have expressed concern over the developing tension in government since last year's March 9 Handshake.
Led by their Patron Gilbert Kabage, the elders said the tension might lead to the political upheaval witnessed in 2007/2008.
“Tension is developing in Rift Valley with some leaders feeling the DP has been sidelined. We therefore call on President Kenyatta and his deputy to ensure the country remains stable towards 2022,” said Kabage.
Published on July 19, 2019
