Governor, elders protest against demos, call for dialogue

Isiolo governor Godana Doyo has lashed out at his critics for inciting residents to protest against his administration, as elders call for respect of elected leaders.

The county boss said that the chaos and demos witnessed in the county in the past one week was the work of his political opponents.

The governor who spoke during a meeting with elders from various communities in the county on Wednesday said critics of his development initiatives were out to discredit his image ahead of the 2017 general elections.

He urged them to give him time to implement his development plan for the county without interference and then battle it out in next year’s polls.

He called for good inter-tribal relations for development instead of detrimental ethnic duels that hinder the county’s progress.

“I am aware that my political opponents are plotting my downfall by inciting locals to demonstrate over the hospital issue which is well known to be one of the well managed institutions,” said Mr Doyo.

He added that his office was always open to the public for any scrutiny and thus no need for demos.

In the past week, three peaceful protests have been held against the county government over poor state of the referral hospital and a few education, roads and infrastructure and water projects.

And the elders called on residents to exercise restraint and embrace dialogue instead of resorting to violence in addressing their differences.

Led by the chairman of the National Council of Elders Phares Rutere, the group from Samburu, Borana, Turkana, Meru and Somali communities called for respect of all elected leaders.

Mr Rutere who is also the Njuri Ncheke Secretary General said it was not yet time for political contests as elections were still far.

“Residents and aspirants in Isiolo should give their governor ample time and room to work freely before the expiry of his term,” said Mr Rutere.