By Robert Mutasi 
Kapseret-Simat Ward Member of County Assembly (MCA) Moses Kebenei has urged parents to be more present and vigilant with their children during the long school holidays, warning that parental absence is exposing children to insecurity and moral decay.
Addressing residents during a community baraza in Simat-Kapsere on Thursday, MCA Kebenei said the holiday season comes with many challenges and called on parents to create time for their children.
“Our kids are on holiday. And there are many issues. And I want to plead with my parents. Let us be close to our kids. Let us have a discussion with them. Let us talk together.”
The MCA, urged families to make it a habit to pray together every evening and to have open conversations about their children’s daily experiences.
“Every evening let us pray together. Let us know what the kids are going through. Let them tell us how the day was. Be close to your kid. As a parent, be that parent who is available for your children,” he emphasized.
Kebenei also raised alarm over rising insecurity in Simat and Kapsere, citing a recent tragic incident where a young girl was raped and killed in the area. The incident has left the village in shock and sparked calls for stronger community-based security.
“Security starts with you. We cannot say that security starts with the government. And let us be a brother’s keeper. If you hear from the Simat Kapsere side there is a girl who was raped and was killed.”
The MCA called on residents to stop shielding criminals within the community and to expose them to authorities, warning that silence will only breed more victims.
“So I am requesting, if we see those characters within our community, let us expose them. If you don’t expose those people tomorrow it will be you. So if you see an evil happening in a community or in a society, pick it out.”
He further appealed to the community to embrace children, guide them with love and instill the right morals, noting that correcting a child early prevents bigger problems later.
“And I am asking the community, let us embrace our kids. Let us accept them and let us teach them the right morals. If you see something not right with a neighbor or a friend’s kid, correct that child before things get out of hand.”
Residents who attended the baraza said the MCA’s message was timely, with many admitting they rarely find time to interact with their children due to farm and work commitments.
The meeting comes as local administration and Nyumba Kumi elders intensify patrols and sensitization following the recent murder incident. Police have urged the public to share information that will lead to the arrest of those behind the heinous act.