Marakwet Professionals and Residents Condemn County and National Governments for Denying Appointments
A significant gathering of Marakwet leaders and residents convened today to express their deep discontent over perceived injustices and neglect by both the County and National governments.
Led by William Chesingany, former Chairman of the Marakwet County Council and former Member of the County Assembly for Moiben, the meeting served as a platform to articulate a collective demand for fair representation and appointments for the region’s professionals.
“We are here today to discuss our rights and voice our frustrations,” Chesingany declared, emphasizing the feelings of abandonment among Marakwet West residents. “Despite our unwavering support for President William Ruto and the Kenya Kwanza government, not one of our professionals has been considered for government positions. This is unacceptable.”
The gathering in Cheptongei Village attracted attendees from all six wards of Marakwet West, each participant united in their call for change. Chesingany further elaborated on the challenges faced by the community, stating, “When we ask for projects and support, we receive silence. Our pleas for fair appointments and representation have gone unanswered for too long.”
Newton Chebii, a prominent local professional, articulated the collective grievances of Marakwet West constituents. “Professionals from our region have been systematically ignored in both National and County appointments,” he lamented. “For years, we have shown unwavering support for various political parties, yet our loyalty has not been reciprocated with opportunities. We have come together, as one voice, to demand what is rightfully ours. It is time the government acknowledges our contributions and the sacrifices we’ve made.”
The leaders expressed their disappointment over the lack of attention from high-ranking officials, citing multiple visits to the region by President Ruto and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, none of which included Marakwet West. “It’s disheartening to see our leaders visit Elgeyo Marakwet without stepping foot in Marakwet West,” Chebii stated. “This exclusion sends a clear message that our voices and needs are not valued. We voted for these leaders, and we expect them to honor their commitments to all constituencies, including ours.”
Elder Mzee Elias Rotich shared similar sentiments, lamenting the disparity in appointments across constituencies in Elgeyo Marakwet. “In the other three constituencies, those who vied for political positions and did not succeed have been given alternative jobs. Yet in Marakwet West, we remain neglected despite our faithfulness to the President and the government,” he pointed out. “This is not just a matter of appointments; it is about recognizing the hard work and dedication of our people who have continually supported the government.”
The gathering highlighted the frustrations of residents who feel they have been taken for granted. Many expressed disbelief at the lack of opportunities, particularly in light of their overwhelming support for the Kenya Kwanza government. “We have voted 99 percent for past regimes, yet our professionals have been overlooked time and again,” Chebii added. “In the recent elections, we supported President Ruto and the Kenya Kwanza coalition with the same passion, and yet we find ourselves in the same situation. This cannot continue.”
Concerns about gender representation were raised by Margaret Wangare, who highlighted the lack of opportunities for women from Marakwet West. “When the government was distributing resources and opportunities, we were forgotten. Women from Marakwet West have been left out of key discussions and decisions,” she asserted. “We humbly ask for equal consideration and employment opportunities. Our contributions are just as valuable as those from other constituencies.”
In a powerful moment during the meeting, Paul Chesire voiced a sentiment that resonated with many attendees. “We want our professionals to be employed. Did we do something wrong to the President that he decided to exclude us?” he asked. “We have invested our hopes and votes in this government, and it’s time for them to invest in us.” The call for fairness echoed throughout the venue, with attendees clapping in agreement and expressing their shared frustrations.
The leaders united in their demand for a meeting with President Ruto, asserting that it is time to address their concerns directly. “We are not begging; we are demanding our rights,” Chesire insisted. “Our community has consistently supported the government, yet we feel marginalized. It’s time for us to receive our fair share. The current state of neglect is unacceptable, and we will continue to advocate for our rights until our voices are heard.”
As the meeting concluded, attendees reaffirmed their commitment to advocating for their rights and ensuring that Marakwet West receives the attention and support it deserves from both the County and National governments. The gathering served as a rallying point for residents, fostering a renewed sense of solidarity and determination to make their voices heard.
Moving forward, the Marakwet West leaders pledged to organize further meetings and engage with other stakeholders to amplify their message. “We will not rest until our rights are recognized and our community is treated with the dignity and respect it deserves,” Chesingany vowed. “It’s time for Marakwet West to stand up and demand what is rightfully ours.”
With a united front, the residents of Marakwet West are determined to fight for equitable representation in government appointments and projects.
The voices of the Marakwet people have been raised, and they are resolute in their commitment to ensuring that their community is not overlooked any longer. As they prepare to take their message to the highest levels of government, the hope is that their dedication and perseverance will finally bring about the change they seek.
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