New leadership in the County Government of Elgeyo Marakwet was sworn in on Thursday, August 25, 2022, in a ceremony that was characterized by handing over symbolizing a change of guard.
The new Governor Wisely Kipyegon Rotich was sworn in at around noon in a colourful ceremony presided by High Court Judge Reuben Nyakundi.
Elected Members of the National Assembly Kangogo Bowen, Timothy Toroitich, Gideon Kimaiyo, Adams Kipsanai and County Woman MP Carolyne Ng’elechei were present.
The incoming Governor gave apologies for Senator Kipchumba Murkomen.
In his inaugural speech, Rotich recognized the United Democratic Alliance Party (UDA), and President-elect William Ruto alongside his political supporters and those who stood by him throughout his campaigns and whom he credited with his win.
Key to the new governor’s priority is turning around the budget towards the transformation of the health sector as well as enhancing disease prevention.
The governor promised to equip at least one health facility in every electoral Ward with X-ray and full haemogram machines, which he said will enhance healthcare provision.
Also, he said he will roll over ‘Kazi Kwa Vijana’ through a Hustlers’ fund as well as implement the Sports Bill enacted by the County Assembly for the promotion of Sports in the County.
On the economic activities program, the governor said he would initiate half an acre cash crop farming amongst households in the Agricultural producing zones in the County.
Wamama na Kuku
In the new government, women will also benefit from the “Wamama na Kuku” program that is meant to uplift the economic status of the rural folk.
Governor Rotich said he will perform duty differently by office rotation across the Ward offices.
The governor said his government would provide a proper working environment for everyone and would address challenges that have over the years impaired the proper working of workers in the County Government.
On the same note, he said his administration will carry out staff training and redeployment that is aimed at boosting efficiency.
Further, he pledged to establish an Efficiency Monitoring Unit which he said will provide surveillance of public services.
However, the new Elgeyo Marakwet Governor warned contractors that it is not going to be business as usual, adding that there should be value for money in every project.
Deputy Governor Prof. Grace Cheserek in her inaugural speech said: “I thank God for the People of Elgeyo Marakwet who accepted our candidature and elected us“.
She praised her boss for having faith in women promising to offer him support throughout their tenure.
“As your Principal Assistant, I will help you achieve your manifesto. I know the passion of the Governor specifically targeting women,” said Cheserek, adding that “Women empowerment is a core item in Governor Rotich’s manifesto the same way it is in the Kenya Kwanza Coalition agenda.”
Handing over to young man
In his hand-over speech, outgoing Governor Eng. Alex Tolgos said serving the County for 10 years was a lifetime honour.
Tolgos in his short speech said he was very pleased that he handed over office to a young man whom he described as a competent and diligent civil servant.
The event was also graced by development partners, the clergy led by Bishop Dominic Kimengich and elders amongst them the Myot Council of Elders Chairperson Major Rt. John Seii, former legislators Francis Mutwol, Robert Kipkor Kasertich and Lucas Chepkitony among other high-profile guests.
