By Correspondent | Wajir Today | Saturday, 22 November 2025
North Eastern Regional Commissioner John Otieno has said the Regional Multisectoral Coordination and Cooperation Forum is driving major improvements in peace and security across the region.
Speaking to journalists in Garissa during a regional security briefing, Otieno said the forum brings state and non-state actors, allowing them to exchange information and intelligence, plan jointly, and address threats faster and more efficiently.
“This forum allows us to share information in real time, harmonise strategies, and respond collectively to issues affecting the security and wellbeing of our people,” Otieno said.
He reported that the region remains largely stable, despite an incident in Liboi where an improvised explosive device struck a security vehicle, killing one officer and injuring three others.
Otieno praised residents, community leaders and elected leaders for supporting security operations, saying their cooperation has strengthened stability and restored public confidence.
“Our region is more secure today because the public and leaders have chosen to work with us. Their support has been invaluable,” he said.
The Commissioner raised alarm over the rising number of juvenile gangs and persistent cases of gender-based violence. He urged members of the multisectoral forum to act against these emerging threats.
He warned against resolving gender-based violence and teenage marriage cases through the maslaha system, insisting such cases must go through formal courts.
Otieno also said the forum will continue reviewing progress on national development projects, including road construction and affordable housing initiatives.
He pointed out that drug abuse in Garissa town remains a serious concern and said security agencies are working closely with residents to combat the problem.
During the briefing, Wajir peace elder Mohammed Osman urged residents across the region to unite in promoting long-term stability. He condemned what he described as increasing political interference in security matters, saying it has weakened efforts to prevent clan clashes.
“It is unfortunate that political meddling has penetrated regional administration and weakened the authority of deputy county commissioners. This has compromised the chain of command and must stop,” Osman said.
He linked the rise in gender-based violence to widespread drug and substances abuse, calling on authorities to respond firmly.
