Messages of political tolerance and sobriety dominated this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations in Baringo County with many leaders condemning the heckling witnessed during the presidential tour of the region.
Addressing a gathering during County Mashujaa day celebrations at Bartolimo comprehensive school grounds in Baringo North Constituency, the leaders led by Governor Benjamin Cheboi who broke silence after suffering the fate alongside Woman Representative Florence Jematia and Baringo Central Member of Parliament Joshua Kandie, noted that the behaviour is uncultured and undemocratic.
Cheboi flanked by County Commissioner Wesley Koech said noise cannot produce good leaders especially in a democratic country where the electorates have a right to elect leaders of their choice. He challenged all those with the tendencies of funding the masses to shout down other leaders to instead empower them and prepare them through acquisition of essential voting documents in order to make informed decisions during elections.
“I urge the financiers of heckling in our county to instead empower the youth to get identity cards and voters card for them to choice their right leaders,” said Cheboi.
The governor who is in his final term said his administration will not be deterred with the noise since they are continuing to implement several key development projects in the water, health and education sectors.
Baringo North MP Joseph Makilap who echoed the sentiments revealed that the county has lost a lot from the last Thursday’s unfortunate incident at Eldama Ravine and Kabarnet Central Business Districts.
Makilap said the three leaders were denied a chance by those they represent to voice some of the concerns affecting them to the head of state.
The legislator urged the residents to stop the behaviour so that leaders are able to articulate their issues openly.
Tugen Miot Council of Elders Secretary Rev. Zachariah Chirchir while calling for peace and respect towards siting leaders urged especially the youth not to be misused by politicians to cause violence.
The leaders continued to rally residents to register as voters so as to participate in electing leaders in 2027 general elections.
By Benson Kelio and Christopher Kiprop
