According to the KNCHR, tensions will remain high and the forthcoming elections will not make things any better.
“It is unlikely that normalcy will resume within a short time. The heavy ethnic animosity, heavy security personnel presence and heightening of political temperatures make this an unrealistic expectation,” warns the KNCHR.
“Medium case scenario is that the current situation will last three months while worst case scenario is that the situation will last until after the general elections.”
Issues surrounding grazing lands must also be resolved.
“The stretch along the River Tana is a pasture reserve for the Orma while for the Pokomo it is a fertile section for cultivation hence the inherent conflict. The Orma and Wardei look at land as God-given while the Pokomos believe land to be theirs,” read the report.
“As long as these differences in perception towards resources exist the hostility and animosity will never cease.”
Sixty witness spoke to the human rights watchdog; 28 agreed to record statements.
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