Elders in Migori County have condemned the violence witnessed during a public function in Suna West Sub-County and called on political leaders to embrace peaceful engagement and work together for the county’s development.
The incident occurred on July 20 during the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a modern outpatient department at Nyamaraga Sub-County Level Four Hospital.
The ceremony was disrupted after a confrontation erupted, leading to the destruction of the project’s foundation stone and an alleged attack on a county official.
Addressing the media, Migori Suba Council of Elders Chairperson Mzee Riogi Riogi described the incident as unfortunate and urged leaders to exercise restraint and uphold the dignity expected of holders of public office.
Riogi called on Suna West Member of Parliament Peter Masara and Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko to put aside political differences and focus on delivering development for the people of Migori.
He said elected leaders have a responsibility to foster unity and avoid actions that could fuel tension or disrupt government development programmes.
“It is important for leaders to respect one another and allow each institution to perform its constitutional mandate for the benefit of wananchi,” Riogi said.
He also appealed to young people not to allow themselves to be manipulated into engaging in violence for political interests.
“I want to speak to the youth. You have done well by remaining peaceful, and I urge you to continue resisting the temptation of being used by politicians to settle political scores through false promises,” he said.
During the event, MP Masara reportedly accused the county government of doing little to support development in the constituency while claiming credit for projects initiated through the national government.
The legislator said the Sh50 million modern outpatient department project was part of President William Ruto’s development commitments made during his visit to the region in April this year.
Migori Suba Council of Elders Treasurer Adoyo Oyugi also condemned the violence and called on leaders to resolve their differences through dialogue rather than confrontation.
She urged both Governor Ayacko and MP Masara to work together in promoting development and improving the welfare of residents.
“We are calling for peace among all the residents of Migori County. Regardless of where one comes from, we all need peace and unity,” said Oyugi.
By Centrine Odoyo and Bahati Livia
