By Erick Otieno
Immediate former Migori County Woman Representative, Pamela Odhiambo, has raised concern over the deteriorating security situation in Macalder town in Nyatike Sub County following unrest that prompted the deployment of officers from the General Service Unit (GSU) and the imposition of a curfew.
The tension in Macalder erupted after the tragic shooting of a local businessman, an incident that triggered protests from angry residents demanding justice and improved security in the area.
During the demonstrations on Friday, several police officers were reportedly stoned by protesters, while the Macalder Police Station was attacked and a police vehicle torched. Reports from the area also indicate that two civilians were allegedly killed during the protests, while several others sustained injuries.
In a statement, Dr. Odhiambo acknowledged that security agencies have a duty to restore law and order but urged them to take into consideration the welfare and challenges facing residents of the region.
She noted that the security concerns in Macalder are not new. About a month ago, a businessman, Francis Juma, and his wife were ambushed and shot by unknown assailants in the same town while heading home in the evening. However, according to the former legislator, investigating agencies are yet to provide findings on the incident and no arrests have been made so far.
Dr. Odhiambo further stated that the situation has left residents frustrated and fearful, calling on authorities to expedite investigations and ensure justice for the victims.
The former Woman Representative also raised concern over the humanitarian and economic impact of the curfew on the community. She observed that the town, which lies within the rich gold belt of Nyatike, largely depends on artisanal mining activities for livelihood.
She claimed that during the security operations, some mining equipment used by local miners had reportedly been destroyed by GSU officers, creating fear among residents who depend on the machines for their daily income.
Dr. Odhiambo also pointed out that the area is already facing other challenges, including insecurity and frequent flooding that often displaces families and disrupts livelihoods.
According to her, imposing a prolonged curfew in such a vulnerable environment risks worsening the humanitarian situation since many residents rely on daily economic activities to support their families.
She therefore called upon the National Government, through the Ministry of Interior and National Administration and other security agencies, to urgently intervene and provide a lasting solution to the persistent insecurity in Nyatike Sub County.
Dr. Odhiambo emphasized that residents of Macalder deserve safety, justice and stability rather than cycles of violence and fear.
At the same time, she urged residents to remain calm and avoid acts of violence or destruction of public property, calling for dialogue, lawful engagement and cooperation with authorities to restore peace in the region.
She also reiterated the need for justice for the slain businessman whose death triggered the unrest in the gold mining town.
