CS Kipchumba Murkomen Leads Nation in Mourning as 31 Landslide Victims Laid to Rest in Elgeyo Marakwet

 

 The Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, Kipchumba Murkomen, on Saturday led hundreds of mourners in an emotional ceremony to lay to rest 31 victims of the devastating landslides and mudslides that struck Chesongoch and Murkutwo on November 1st and 2nd.

The tragedies, which hit several parts of Elgeyo Marakwet County including Chesongoch, Murkutwo, Embobut, Sambirir and Kipkenda, claimed at least 41 lives and displaced scores of families, leaving a trail of destruction and grief across the region.

Addressing the bereaved families and affected communities, CS Murkomen described the pain engulfing the county and the nation as “immeasurable,” noting that the loss of lives had shaken the country deeply.

He conveyed condolences on behalf of President Dr. William Samoei Ruto and the national leadership, assuring families that the government would fast-track all necessary support.

“The President has directed us to expedite all the necessary support due to the expected families, and we will implement this to the latter,” Murkomen said.

The Cabinet Secretary announced heightened efforts to relocate residents living in geologically unstable and high-risk areas to safer zones. He further noted that the government would provide psychosocial support to affected households and eventually resettle displaced families on safer, stable land.

In a firm directive, Murkomen instructed the County Commissioner to enforce strict accountability in the distribution of government and donor assistance.

“All assistance must be used prudently. Beneficiaries must be verified by administrators and security teams, with zero tolerance for corruption,” he emphasized.

Looking to long-term recovery, Murkomen reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustaining security gains in the region through intelligence-led operations, enhancement of security roads and markets, and empowerment of local economic activities to build resilience.

As the nation mourns, the Cabinet Secretary urged unity and prayer, asking God to grant peace to the departed and comfort to their families.

“May the Almighty God rest the departed souls in eternal peace and comfort their loved ones during this difficult time,” he said.

The government continues to coordinate rescue, humanitarian, and resettlement efforts as affected communities begin the long journey to recovery.