Cheplasgei Residents Protest Poor Road Conditions with Unconventional Demonstration
Tapsagoi Ward – In a striking display of frustration, residents of Cheplasgei in Tapsagoi Ward have taken an unusual approach to draw attention to their deteriorating road conditions.
This week, they planted banana seedlings on a heavily damaged and impassable road, symbolizing their dissatisfaction with local leaders for failing to address their long-standing concerns.
The protest took place on Wednesday, as community members gathered at the entrance of the road that has been in disrepair for months. Armed with banana seedlings and gardening tools, the residents planted the bananas as a visual statement of their grievances against local duty bearers who they say have neglected their needs.
“The state of this road is a daily challenge for us,” said resident Paul Kipkemoi. “We have raised this issue repeatedly with our local leaders, but our concerns seem to be ignored. By planting these bananas, we hope to illustrate that their inaction has left us in a state of stagnation.”
The road, which serves as a vital link between Cheplasgei and neighboring communities, has suffered from severe erosion, potholes, and inadequate maintenance. Residents claim that the poor condition of the road has hindered access to essential services, including healthcare and education, and has increased the risk of accidents.
“We have been patient and tried to work through the proper channels, but we see no progress,” explained Jane Kiprotich, a local school teacher. “We are using this demonstration to show our leaders that we are serious about our demands for action. We need them to take our issues seriously.”
The planting of the banana seedlings, an act meant to symbolize both growth and stagnation, has sparked discussions within the community and beyond. The residents hope that this unconventional protest will attract the attention of both local and regional authorities, prompting them to address the road’s poor condition and fulfill their promises to the community.
Local leaders have not yet responded to the protest, and there is no official word on whether there will be any immediate plans for road repairs. The residents of Cheplasgei are calling for a meeting with local officials to discuss potential solutions and timelines for the road’s maintenance.