Keynan Defends Basir Security Centre Amid Wajir–Marsabit Boundary Dispute

Eldas MP Adan Keynan Wehliye has defended the controversial Basir Multi-Agency Security Centre, describing the project as a critical national security intervention aimed at combating organized crime along the northern Kenya corridor.

In a statement released on Thursday, the legislator said he had initially chosen to remain silent on the matter due to the “sensitivity and importance” of the country’s security framework. However, he noted that increasing misinformation and political rhetoric surrounding the project had forced him to address the issue publicly.

Mr Keynan emphasized that security remains an exclusive constitutional function of the National Government and warned against politicizing matters touching on national stability and public safety.

According to the MP, the Ethiopia–Moyale–Basir–Arbajan–Isiolo corridor has increasingly become a major route for transnational criminal activities, including drug trafficking, illegal firearms trade, human trafficking, kidnappings and smuggling.

He argued that the growing insecurity has negatively affected several northern counties, among them Wajir County, Marsabit County, Isiolo County, Garissa County, Samburu County, Laikipia County, Meru County and Mandera County through rising insecurity, drug abuse, youth vulnerability and disruption of livelihoods.

The MP disclosed that the Basir Multi-Agency Security Centre was conceptualized and coordinated by government security agencies following extensive assessments and inter-agency consultations. He explained that the Eldas NG-CDF later stepped in to support infrastructural development and construction works.

“It is deeply regrettable that the construction of the project was suspended by the very Government security agencies,” Mr Keynan said, lamenting that the initiative had since degenerated into a political contest despite its intended role in restoring regional stability.

Addressing the ongoing boundary dispute, the legislator dismissed claims that Basir and Tito locations fall under Marsabit County, insisting that the areas have historically remained under the administrative structure of Wajir County both before and after the establishment of Eldas Constituency.

He stated that Basir Sub-Location dates back to the late 1980s before later evolving into a fully recognized location and divisional headquarters within the larger Wajir administrative system.

Mr Keynan further appealed to leaders from both counties to avoid inflammatory remarks that could heighten tensions among neighbouring communities.

He noted that residents of Basir, Tito and neighbouring areas in Wajir County have coexisted peacefully with communities in Moyale for decades and urged leaders to prioritize dialogue, unity and peaceful coexistence over political confrontation.

“The protection of lives and preservation of public order must remain above narrow political interests,” the MP stated.

He also called on the National Government to provide decisive leadership on the future of the project while ensuring fairness, peace and stability in the region.