Turkana MP under probe over riots against Tullow oil firm
Security officers patrol inside the camp after all the Tullow staff packed to leave the site after a series of demonstrations by residents that paralysed all operations within all the oil sites, meanwhile Tullow oil has suspended operations for fear of staffs' security. Photo\PETER WARUTUMO.
What you need to know:
- The MP over the weekend led locals in demonstrations against the oil company claiming that the residents have been denied priority when it comes to jobs and tenders from the company.
- At the same time, the minister said investigations into the killing of a Laikipia University Student are underway.
The government is investigating Turkana South MP James Lomenen for incitement over demonstrations against Tullow Oil Company.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Joseph ole Lenku Wednesday said that initial investigations have established that the MP led a group of about 400 people who stormed Twiga I oil drilling camp in Turkana County and caused wanton destruction of property and looting.
“The government is also investigating allegations that the Turkana South MP has vested interest in tenders coming from Tullow Oil Company,” Mr Lenku said in a press statement.
“If this is found to be true, he will be charged in accordance with Chapter Six of the Constitution dealing with leadership and integrity and which prohibits leaders from misusing their communities to push for personal business agenda,” he added.
But Mr Lomenen has since distanced himself with the accusations and blamed the minister for having only “listened to one side of the story’.
“I think Mr Lenku has only heard the story from Tullow Oil Company’s perspective alone and am sure they have lied to him,” said the MP.
The first-term lawmaker over the weekend led locals in demonstrations against the Oil Company claiming that the residents have been denied priority when it comes to jobs and tenders from the company.
The protests led to the closure of operations under the management of Tullow Oil Company. Mr Lenku has since termed the incident unfortunate and assured investors of the government’s commitment to their safety.
“The government wishes to re-assure all investors that it will do everything in its power to provide a safe and secure atmosphere in the country,” Mr Lenku said.
He dismissed the MPs claims that the oil company has discriminated against locals in awarding tenders and offering job opportunities saying statistics available are contrary to those claims.
“Statistics show that Tullow Oil has a workforce of about 1400 people and out of these, 800 employees translating to 57 percent are from Turkana County. Accusations of discrimination are not evident from these facts,” stated the minister.
But in a quick rejoinder, the MP insisted that the locals have been short-changed.
“In terms of semi-skilled manpower, it was agreed that the locals will take up to 70 percent of the opportunities available. That is not the case on the ground,” he said.
He exonerated himself from blame and instead accused Tullow Oil Company officials for provoking the wrath of the locals.
“The residents had begged for audience for over six hours before they stormed the camp. The company officials used abusive terms at them and were it not for my intervention, the altercation could have been disastrous,” he told the Nation on phone.
Mr Lenku said the National Police Service has meanwhile beefed up security in the area and will be establishing additional permanent police posts in selected areas of Turkana County.
