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Security Militias Turn Into Terrorists

The East African Standard (Nairobi)
NEWS
July 19, 2004
Posted to the web July 19, 2004

By Big Issue Writer
Nairobi
Kisii District has had many militia groups for decades. The security situation
was at its worst about 25 years ago, when Kebago - Gusii word for organised
thugs - had become difficult to contain.
The situation improved tremendously until recently when Kebago reincarnated in
Bonchari Constituency last year, sparking much concern among residents and
security agents.
"After causing destruction, the gang would retreat to their hideouts outside
Bonchari," said a resident.
It was then that some chief's came up with the idea of forming Kisungu sungu to
contain Kebago. They sold the idea to their bosses in the administration and it
was promptly accepted. But Kisungu sungu became a security menace itself.
But other than Kebago and Kisungu sungu, local politicians maintain their own
political thugs, the Amachuma, who can be hired to cause chaos and mayhem to
their paymasters' opponents. The militias are said to mount lengthy and
ruthless operations.
The Amachuma culture reportedly started in 1992, being a creation of
politicians, who would use the militias to disorganise their opponents. Such
gangs operate in Nyaribari Chache, Nyaribari Masaba, Bobasi and sections of
South Mugirango, Bonchari and Kitutu Chache. "They are for hire and they can
spread terror on anyone's political opponents," said our source.
When former State Minister Julius Sunkuli banned militia groups in March 2002,
Amachuma is said to have remained active in sections of Kisii, where it enjoyed
the support of some politicians. They were also used by businessmen to settle
scores with their rivals.
But while most militia groups have been associated with violence, not all of
them can be so classified. Some of them are, in fact, known to work for the
general good of society. The Chinkororo are, for instance, appreciated by
everyone in Kisii, though the group is as illegal as any other militia
organisation.
It comprises traditional warriors, who defend the interests of the community,
particularly along the district's border with Maasais, Luos and Kalenjins.
The Chinkororo is well organised, disciplined and does not engage in acts of
lawlessness. "Like the national army, Chinkororo does not fight within Kisii,
but only tackles external aggressors. It regroups only when need arises," said
a source.
It is mainly found in the South Mugirango, Bomachoge and Bobasi/Borabu areas.
The Abagusii remember with admiration the way Chinkororos rescued the community
in 1991 during tribal clashes in the Borabu settlement scheme.
They have been known to engage Maasais, who attempted to steal cattle from
Bomachoge. They have also engaged Luos around Ndonyo numerous times in boundary
disputes.

   

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