Meru County governor Isaac Mutuma has called on the residents to shun the politics of poverty, handouts and empty rhetorics and to instead embrace development in order become economically stable.
The governor said it is wrong for any politician to brainwash culpable and venerable residents into believing they are too poor and can only survive on handouts including gumboots, matresses, blankets, slippers, shoes and foodstuff among other things.
Speaking at Githongo market in Central Imenti constituency, Meru County during the Mashujaa Day celebrations, Governor Mutuma said the Meru community is no longer interested in such outdated and selfish politics meant to benefit a few politicians.
“We don’t wants the politics of poverty where people are being brain washed into believing that they are very poor to afford even basic needs like food and shelter. After being fully convinced that they are poor, they start relying on handouts like gumboots, foodstuff, mattresses, blankents, clothing among others in order to survive. We will never allow our people to be brainwashed again.,” said Governor Mutuma.
His remarks came barely moments after drama unfolded outside Githongo Stadium when his predecessor Kawira Mwangaza and her supporters were denied access to the facility leading to rising political and security tension.
The rivary between the two groups almost brought business to a standstill with the security agencies forced to throw teargas canisters to contain the situation.
Governor Mutuma accussed Mwangaza of
fuelling political tensions noting the former governor was ready to use chaos to infiltrate the meeting, injure and harm innocent residents for her own selfish gains.
“I wonder whether Mwangaza is a blessing or curse to the Meru community. This is because she was ready to see innocent and helpless residents suffer for her own selfish political gains. I will ensure such outdated politics is never allowed here again. I urge residents to shun such outdated politics at all cost,” said Mutuma.
As the chaos and disruption errupted outside the stadium, police officers were forced to throw teargas canisters at the goons while engaging them in running battles.
Governor Mutuma also faulted recent reconcillition unity efforts by former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi terming the move as insincere since did not follow the proper channels and procedures.
He said he is the best suited to spearhead such reconcilliation or unity talk simply since he is the bonafide governor after taking the leadership mantle.
Mutuma also drummed up support for President William Ruto 2027 reelection bid owing to his impressive development record.
County police commander Moses Mutisya assurred locals of security noting traders and other stakeholders will be fully protected.
The County police boss lauded the governor for assisting with vehicles to patrol the Nothern grazing zone and vowed to continue fighting illicit brews, drugs, crime and other vices.
Meru County Commissioner George Omollo called for mutual respect and political torrerance between the administrators and politicians.
He cautioned leaders against engaging in unnecesary politicking or causing chaos
noting action will be taken against culprits since the country is governed by the rule of law.
“We always establish the origin of the livestock especially the camel before allowing them to graze anywhere in the county. From next week, candidates will be doing the national exams. I promised to ensure a seamless exercise since security will be provided,” said Omollo.
Ends.
Deputy Governor Ms Linda Kiome pledged to continue supporting governor Mutuma clinch the governorship position owing to his outstanding development record.
She cautioned leaders against engaging in petty politics or misusing the youth for their selfish political gains.
“I urge the youth not to be misused by selfish and malicious politicians. Anyone who breaks the law will face the full force of the law. I will continue supporting Governor Mutuma and ensure he is elected during the 2027 general election. I will rally the Imenti, Tigania and Igembe sub tribes behind him,” said the deputy Governor.
