The priest killing in Tot Eldoret has shaken the North Rift region, sparking widespread outrage and renewed calls for government intervention. Following the tragic death of Catholic priest Father Alloys Bett, leaders from the North Rift Economic Bloc (NOREB) have demanded urgent government action to end insecurity and restore peace in the volatile Elgeyo Marakwet border area.
This tragedy has brought the community together in mourning, but it has also ignited serious conversations about law enforcement, security, and the role of the church in conflict-prone regions.
A Call for Action: Leaders Speak Out
During a somber memorial mass held at Eldoret Cathedral, local leaders stood united in grief and frustration. Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei criticized the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) for failing to make timely arrests and demanded an official probe into the priest’s murder.
“As people from Nandi, we had hoped the killer of Father Alloys Bett would be in custody by now,” said Cherargei.
Cherargei revealed that members of the Marakwet community are willing to assist in locating the suspect, reportedly known to them. He called for:
- Gazetting Tot as a high-risk area
- Immediate disarmament of local militias
- Thorough DCI investigations into clergy killings
A Community in Mourning and Reflection
Elgeyo Marakwet Senator William Kisang questioned the motive behind the priest’s killing, describing it as an attack on peace itself.
“Why would anyone target a man of God who had no enemies?” Kisang asked.
To promote reconciliation, Kisang announced a delegation of elders would visit Father Bett’s home in Olessois to seek forgiveness and offer condolences. This traditional act underscores the deep cultural roots of conflict resolution in the region.
The Role of the Church in Healing Tot
Leaders also emphasized the need for stronger spiritual infrastructure in Tot—a region historically plagued by lawlessness.
“We need more churches in Tot. That’s the only way to fight backwardness and criminality,” stated Cherargei.
With major infrastructure projects like the KSh 5 billion road upgrade currently underway, there’s hope that security improvements could help transform the region. But without peace, development risks being derailed once again.
Moving Forward: Security and Solidarity
Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago noted that Father Bett was killed just meters from where he had been preaching, highlighting the boldness of the attackers. He urged the church, with its deep local roots, to help uncover the truth and support healing efforts.
Also in attendance were Nandi Deputy Governor Yulita Cheruiyot and former Tinderet MP Henry Kosgey, both of whom offered heartfelt condolences to the priest’s family and called for unity during this difficult time.
Conclusion: Security Is the Path to Peace
The priest killing in Tot Eldoret has laid bare the ongoing insecurity threatening both lives and progress in the North Rift. Residents and leaders alike are demanding not just justice for Father Bett, but long-term solutions that prioritize safety, spiritual growth, and economic development.
