The government has put on notice politicians and their allies in Marsabit County reported to be engaging in early campaigns which border on hostile activities.
Subsequently, residents have been urged to uphold peace to enable the current development push in the region to continue.
Marsabit county commissioner James Kamau, who was speaking at Maikona Baraza Park in North Horr constituency during a peace meeting that was also graced by Governor Mohamud Ali, pointed out that the government had managed to restore peace and unity among local communities and would not tolerate attempts to negate the gains made.
Mr Kamau said certain politicians were under investigation for involving themselves in activities that don’t only point at undermining the authority but also to antagonising wananchi along ethnic lines.
“The government is fully committed to ensuring that the existing lull remains so that the ongoing and planned development projects can be implemented as expected,” said the CC, adding that no one will be allowed to instil fear in wananchi for selfish political gain.
He observed that projects which had been disrupted by anxiety, including the tarmacking of the Marsabit-Segel-Maikona 97.8 km road at a cost of Sh10.1 billion, were now back on course because there is harmony.
The county commissioner asked Marsabit residents and especially the youth and women to be vigilant and give support to security agencies in preserving the existing tranquility.
“The security agencies are on high alert and keeping watch over those politicians and their associates who are said to be planting seeds of discord between communities through incitement as they engage in early electioneering.”
On his part, Governor Ali, while commending the local security organs for prioritising the safety and security of Marsabit residents, reminded them that maintenance of the same was a collective responsibility between the government and members of the public.
The Governor underlined the importance of peace and unity, which he said was paramount for development to take place.
He observed that with harmony children were now able to attend school freely while the movement of goods and services was being done without security escort.
“I am imploring on you to coexist as Kenyans by loving one another and not to allow greedy politicians to divide you along political persuasions or tribal lines,” he appealed, adding that it was the only way that the rich cultural diversity and resources that abound in the county could be exploited for a better life for all.
He encouraged locals to register with the Social Health Authority (SHA) to be able to access quality health services.
The Governor said that the two levels of government were collaborating to ensure that delivery of universal health care in the country was a success, adding that his administration has employed 153 additional health personnel this year towards the effort.
Other speakers at the function, who included members of the county assembly and elders, thanked President Ruto for various ongoing development projects in the roads, water, trade and agricultural sectors across the county, which are aimed at transforming lives in the region.
The leaders also stressed the importance of peace and promised to continue rallying the residents behind the peacebuilding endeavours.
The event was light, with a large cultural display by traditional troupes sourced from the rich diversity of more than 14 ethnic groups that live in the county, as well as drama and dance performances by school teams, all with a rallying call for harmony.
By Sebastian Miriti
