In recent weeks, the broad based government has been marred by a series of missteps that have raised concerns over efficiency of President Ruto top handlers.
From public relations blunders to security lapses, these failures have deepened the trust deficit between the government and the Kenyan populace. The tragic killings in Angata Barrikoi serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of these miscalculations.
The incident in Angata Barrikoi, where six individuals were killed during a land dispute, has sparked outrage across the country. Opposition leaders have been vocal in their condemnation.
Senator Joseph Nyutu has elbowed the government remarking”This is not just a failure of security; it’s a failure of leadership. The government must take responsibility for these senseless deaths.” Similarly, the area MCA Joseph Koech stated, “The government’s inaction in addressing land issues has led to this tragedy. It’s time for accountability.”
President Ruto, in his many address to the nation seemed to give the issue a wide berth even as he condole and promised a thorough investigation.
“We will ensure that justice is served to the families affected by this unfortunate incident.” However, his words have done little to quell public anger, with many questioning the government’s commitment to justice.
PR blunders and erosion of trust
The administration’s handling of the aftermath has been criticized as a public relations disaster. The delay in providing clear information and the lack of immediate action have fueled suspicions and conspiracy theories. Political analyst Dr. Jane Mwangi commented, “The government’s response has been slow and inadequate. This has only served to deepen the mistrust among the public.”
Further compounding the issue, the government’s communication strategy has been inconsistent. Conflicting statements from various officials have added to the confusion, leaving citizens uncertain about the government’s stance and actions.
The security situation in the country has also deteriorated. Recent reports indicate an increase in attacks by Al-Shabaab militants, particularly in the northeastern and coastal regions. In March 2025, six police reservists were killed in Garissa County during an ambush by the militant group.
Security experts attribute these escalating attacks to several factors, including the government’s decision to overhaul the security leadership. A report by the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED) suggests that the simultaneous changes in the country’s top security positions created a leadership vacuum, which Al-Shabaab exploited.
Additionally, the weakening of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has left gaps in regional security, further emboldening the militant group. The report notes, “The reduction of ATMIS troops and the lack of coordination between Kenyan and Somali forces have contributed to the resurgence of Al-Shabaab activities.”
Call for reforms
In the wake of these events, there have been widespread calls for accountability and reform. Human rights organizations have demanded an independent investigation into the Angata Barrikoi killings. A statement from the Kenya Human Rights Commission reads, “We cannot allow such atrocities to go unpunished. An independent inquiry is essential to restore justice and public confidence.”
Security experts also advocate for a comprehensive review of the country’s security policies. Analyst Rashid Abdi emphasized the need for localized solutions, stating, “Investing in affected communities and strengthening local policing structures are crucial steps in combating the Al-Shabaab threat.
