A section of members of the Sabaot Community has hit out at Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya over his recent remarks that opposed a proposal to hive off some parts of the cosmopolitan county to create a new Mount Elgon County.
In a strongly-worded press statement read by Cathleen Chepkemboi in Kitalale, the over 200 community members accused Natembeya of using harsh, discriminatory and fuelling remarks against the community’s quest to have their own County.
“We single out almost the last two recent statements where on 18th April 2023 at Bwake, in Cherangany Constituency, the Governor whom we hold in high esteem made statements to imply that the quest by the Sabaot Community to have their own County was a quest in futility,” read part of the statement.
On 23 August 2023 during Michael Kijana Wamalwa’s 20th anniversary, Natembeya who appeared agitated stated that no one was going to hive off any part of Trans Nzoia County as long as he is the Governor.
“It is extremely perturbing and of great concern why the Governor seems to be very combative, highly agitated and overtly ruthless in his statements. What is this personalization of Trans Nzoia County that seems to drive the Governor into vile attacks?” Chepkemboi asked.
Daydreaming
Former Saboti ward Member of County Assembly (MCA) David Kapoloman said it was unfair for the Governor who was overwhelmingly voted for by them to term their quest as a day dream.
“I invested a lot of resources into your campaigns. It is very embarrassing that you have turned your back against us but watch out, we shall have our own county whether you like it or not because we are not day dreaming as you alleged,” Kapoloman.
The former MCA further said creation of additional counties is not a favour from Governor Natembeya but provided for in the Constitution of Kenya with clear framework.
“We wish to bring to the attention of Governor Natembeya that creation of a county hived from Trans Nzoia and Bungoma is possible within the Constitution of Kenya if it meets the requirements laid down by law and not the requirements of individual governors,” he added.
In addition, Alfred Ndiema said Natembeya should allow the members of the Senate to exercise their constitutional powers without any form of intimidation.
“We strongly urge the Governor to be on the forefront in drumming support for the creation of Mt. Elgon county by even proposing areas that Trans Nzoia will cede for Mt. Elgon to achieve in its dreams of county self-governance,” Ndiema appealed.
Makusta Kiboi, the chairperson of Sabaot community in Kinyoro ward said Natembeya’s utterances are demeaning, discriminatory and defeats the core requirements of rule of law.
NCIC probe
Kiboi pointed out that not once but on several occasions has the county boss said he is a commando in reference to the push for a new county.
“Are you saying you want to fight with innocent civilians?” Kiboi asked.
He further called on the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) to investigate Natembeya’s remarks and take necessary actions.
Pamela Ngeiywo, also member of the Sabaot Community said Natembeya’s utterances defeats the rule of law that strives to uphold National values and principles of governance, non-discrimination and protection of the minority and the marginalized, boundaries of counties and objects of devolution.
The community members said they shall not relent in their quest to achieve self governance.
Early this week, Natembeya said the community was ungrateful to demand for their own County on the basis of being sidelined since Trans Nzoia Deputy Governor Philomena Kapkori, Senator Allan Chesang and Women Representative Lilian Siyoi, all hail the nilotic community.
Your Excellency President Dr. William Samoei Ruto, esteemed guests and fellow members of the Sabaot community,
I stand before you today as an elected legislator representing my electorate, the marginalized Sabaot community. Today, as we appreciate the arrival of His Excellency to Elgon, I have a special memo to address a matter of utmost importance to our people.
Your Excellency, the creation of Mt Elgon County, is the beacon of hope that our long-suffering and oppressed Sabaot community desperately needs. For far too long, we have traversed the boundaries of both Bungoma and Trans-Nzoia counties, facing numerous challenges and limited access to crucial resources and services.
The establishment of Mt Elgon County will provide us with a dedicated administration that understands our unique needs and can address them effectively. It will serve as a platform for accelerated development, empowering our community with opportunities for growth, education, healthcare, and economic prosperity.
Moreover, the creation of Mt Elgon County will foster a sense of unity and belonging among our people. It will strengthen our cultural heritage, promote local governance, and enable us to preserve and celebrate our traditions. By having our own county, we can take charge of our destiny and shape a better future for generations to come.
Your Excellency, we look to you as a champion of progress and inclusivity. We humbly request that you mention the hope of creating Mt Elgon County during your visit to Elgon today. Your endorsement and support will amplify our aspirations, galvanize our efforts, and pave the way for positive change in our marginalized community.
We trust that under your visionary leadership, our plea for the creation of Mt Elgon County will be heard and acted upon. Together, we can salvage the lives of the long-suffering Sabaot people, restore their dignity, and unlock their true potential.
Thank you, Your Excellency, for your unwavering commitment to the welfare of all Kenyans and for considering our plea. May your visit to Elgon be a catalyst for transformative change, and may our dreams of a better future be realized through the establishment of Mt Elgon County.
At Your service,
Hon. Fred Chesebee Kapondi MP. MT ELGON CONSTITUENCY
NB. My opinion to area MNA today courtesy of Mt Elgon County Caucus.
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