The Njuri Njuri Ncheke Council of Elders has declared its full support for the current government led by President William Samoei Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki.
Speaking on Thursday at the Njuri Ncheke Shrine in Nchiru, Tigania West, the council chairman, Andrian Arujaru, reaffirmed the elders’ commitment to working closely with the national leadership for the unity and development of the Meru community.
“We stand firmly behind President Ruto and his deputy, Professor Kithure Kindiki. We believe their leadership will bring progress to our people and the entire nation,” said Arujaru.
The over 10,000 respected Njuri Ncheke elders consecrated Tigania East MP Mpuru Aburi as their intermediary between them and the government.
The chairman also urged Meru Governor Mutuma M’Ethingia to reinstate county employees who were dismissed after being employed during former Governor Kawira Mwangaza’s administration.
“Governor M’Ethingia should reinstate those employees. He must remember that he was also part of Governor Kawira Mwangaza’s government,” Arujaru stated.
The elders further cautioned Governor M’Ethingia against encroaching on the Meru Forest in his plans to construct a state lodge and airstrip.
They said the project had been initiated without consultation with the Njuri Ncheke or the Meru community.
“The forest is sacred and belongs to the people of Meru. The governor must not touch it without involving the Njuri Ncheke and the community,” the elders warned.
In addition, the council distanced itself from a group that recently visited the Raila Odinga family claiming to represent the Njuri Ncheke.
“Those who went to visit the Raila family are not Njuri Ncheke leaders. They retired from leadership long ago. However, if they wish to return, they are welcome to come back after paying the required fine but only as ordinary members, not officials,” Arujaru clarified.
The elders reiterated that only the officially recognized Njuri Ncheke council based at Nchiru has the mandate to speak on behalf of the Meru community.
