Turkana Central MP Joseph Emathe at Parliament building. PHOTO: MP Joseph Emathe
Turkana Central Member of Parliament Hon. Joseph Emathe is now demanding justice to slain fishermen Daniel Esinyen who was shot and killed by Kenya Wildlife Service officers at Kanakwara Fish Village.
The incident involved Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) rangers in a helicopter while the victims were fishing in Lake Turkana on Saturday, 15th June, 2024 when they met untimely death in the hands of KWS rangers
The deceased who is a respected former manager of the Lodwar Youth Polytechnic was accompanied by other three friends during their fishing activities away from the park’s protected area
“This tragic incident has left our community in shock and mourning. Many boats have been destroyed by KWS officers, and numerous innocent fishermen remain missing, feared dead. The senseless violence and loss of innocent lives must be addressed immediately,” he added
The legislator disclosed that a number of fishermen have been killed in the same manner while they are carrying on their livelihoods demanding thorough and transparent investigations into the incidents
“I am very dismayed by the manner the KWS is killing my people while they are fishing. Has fishing become illegal in some parts of the country without being told? Emathe questioned
He added that other fishermen have disappeared in the hands of rogue KWS rangers
“I called KWS Director General Mr Kanga and instead of taking action against the officers, what he told me is that will visit the area. We now now demand those responsible for this heinous act to be held accountable. We call on the relevant authorities to ensure justice for Daniel Esinyen and his friends, and to take immediate steps to protect our community from such unwarranted aggression in the future,” he stated.
According to MP, another incident happened on June 12, 2024 when Merille poachers clashed with KWS resulting in the deaths of two KWS