End row over Maseno, governors told

Senator Anyang’ Nyong’o and Gem MP Jakoyo Midiwo have asked two governors embroiled in a dispute over the location of Maseno to bury the hatchet.

The leaders said the row between Kisumu Governor Jack Ranguma and his Vihiga counterpart Moses Akaranga could derail development if it is not resolved quickly.

“All along we have been living peacefully. It is very unfortunate the two leaders are now demanding to have their people registered in their respective counties,” said Prof Nyong’o at a funeral in Kisumu on Sunday.

The former ODM secretary-general said the Luhyas and Luos have co-existed peacefully as neighbours, and the issue of a border row should not arise.

Mr Midiwo urged the two governors to desist from making comments that could trigger conflict.

“We are not at war with the Luhya community, however, some inciting remarks being made by leaders might cause chaos and this would lead us nowhere,” he said.

The remarks come two days after Mr Ranguma said he had called for a meeting with Mr Akaranga to discuss boundary issues. He has also asked the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission to step in.

Mr Ranguma has had a change of heart over Mr Akaranga’s decision to send tractors to build roads in the disputed town. He said the road works would benefit residents.

“There is no problem with the road. I also commissioned road works in Nyahera and the tractors ended up working on some roads in Vihiga,” said Mr Ranguma.

Two weeks ago, Mr Akaranga sent tractors to open up feeder roads in Maseno, which is located in Kisumu.