Immediate former Migori Woman Representative Pamela Odhiambo has called for restraint and urgent government intervention following violent unrest that erupted in Macalder, Nyatike Sub-County, after the tragic shooting of a local businessman.
The incident sparked widespread anger among residents, leading to protests that quickly escalated into violent confrontations with police officers.
During the unrest, several officers were reportedly injured after being stoned by angry residents, while Macalder Police Station was attacked and a police vehicle set ablaze.
In response to the deteriorating security situation, officers from the General Service Unit (GSU) were deployed to the area and a curfew imposed to contain the unrest and restore order.
Dr Odhiambo expressed deep concern over the situation, noting that while security agencies have a duty to maintain law and order, the approach must also take into consideration the difficult circumstances faced by residents of Nyatike.
“The situation in Macalder is deeply worrying. While restoring law and order is important, we must also remember that the people of Nyatike are already facing many challenges. The government must ensure that justice is served while also protecting the welfare and livelihoods of residents,” said Dr Odhiambo.
She further urged the National Government, through the Ministry of Interior and relevant security agencies, to move swiftly and address the root causes of insecurity in Nyatike Sub-County.
According to the gubernatorial aspirant, imposing a prolonged curfew in an area already struggling with economic and environmental hardships could worsen the humanitarian situation, particularly for residents who rely on daily economic activities to sustain their families.
“Nyatike residents deserve security, justice, and stability. However, lasting peace can only be achieved through dialogue, accountability, and a comprehensive approach to the region’s security challenges,” she added.
Dr Odhiambo also appealed to residents to remain calm and refrain from acts of violence or destruction of public property, emphasizing that cooperation with authorities and peaceful engagement are critical in restoring calm.
Background
The unrest in Macalder was triggered by the fatal shooting of a local businessman, an incident that sparked outrage among residents and led to protests demanding justice.
The protests escalated into violent clashes with police, resulting in injuries to several officers and destruction of property, including the torching of a police vehicle and an attack on Macalder Police Station.
Following the unrest, police arrested Felix Okwanyo, the Member of County Assembly for Macalder/Kanyarwanda Ward in Nyatike Sub-County.
The legislator was taken into custody by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations to assist with investigations into the violent protests that rocked the mining town.
Authorities later transferred the MCA to the DCI regional headquarters in Kisumu for further questioning as investigators seek to establish the circumstances surrounding the unrest.
Macalder, a gold mining town in Nyatike Sub-County in Migori County, has historically experienced security challenges linked to mining disputes and economic hardships.
The region has also recently been affected by flooding that has displaced families and disrupted livelihoods in several villages.
The convergence of insecurity, economic hardship, and environmental challenges has heightened tensions in the area, prompting calls for urgent government intervention to restore stability and prevent further escalation.
Local leaders and residents are now urging authorities to ensure a transparent investigation into the businessman’s killing while addressing the broader security concerns affecting Nyatike Sub-County.
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