Leaders have their work cut out in the land of hardship

Political leaders vying for seats in West Pokot face a hard task in an area where development has taken a back seat.

Although the area has many resources, they have not been exploited for the benefit of the people.

West Pokot is characterised by insecurity, hunger, inadequate healthcare retrogressive cultural practices like Female Genital Mutilation [FGM], early forced marriages, violence against women, high illiteracy and a lack of markets for agricultural products.

Most of the area is dry, sandy, and rocky with poor roads. In addition it has been hit by tribal clashes between the Karamojong, Sabaot, Marakwet and Turkana.

Frequent cattle raids have contributed to the proliferation of illegal firearms which in turn has led to loss of life and slow development.

People seeking votes are talking of how they will alleviate poverty and foster development. But in the meantime, the tension between politicians and professionals is high.

`Some people in the area argue that although the new county’s key leadership positions will be decided politically, the people who get into them should have sound managerial acumen and strategies to harness the area’s potential.

Many in the county say they need a technocrat who is sober minded and who can take encourage development as governor.

The 2012 election is expected to be very competitive, given that three political giants have already hit the campaign trail with each hoping to clinch the senator’s seat.

They are Information and Communications minister Samuel Poghisio, Public and Works Permanent Secretary John Lonyangapuo, and Kapenguria MP Julius Murgor.

It is no secret that Mr Poghisio has a strong support of the Eldoret North MP William Ruto who has been holding meetings throughout Pokot to campaign for the Kacheliba MP.

On his part, the Rev Murgor has the support of Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

The Prime Minister has visited Pokot several times both on political missions and for development, including the launch of the building of the cement factory in Ortum, which has in fact yet to get off the ground.

Mr Murgor and Prof Lonyangapou are separately said to have lobbied for the building of the factory.

Prof Lonyangapou has the backing of former President Moi. The mathematics professor and former principal of Chepkoilel Univesity College is also the chairman of Kabarak University, owned by Mr Moi.

The politics of Pokot have changed considerably since the days of the so-called King of the Pokot, Cabinet minister Francis Lotodo.

His word was law and he was revered by the community because of his commitment to the welfare of the people.

Race for governor