Marakwet West Leaders Demand Fair Representation in Government Appointments, Decry Neglect
“We are here today to discuss our rights and voice our frustrations,” Chesingany stated.
Marakwet West leaders have expressed their deep frustration and dissatisfaction with both the County and National governments for what they perceive as exclusion and neglect in government appointments.
In a gathering held at Cheptongei Village, led by William Chesingany, former Chairman of the Marakwet County Council and former Member of the County Assembly for Moiben, the leaders and residents united to demand fair representation for local professionals.
“We are here today to discuss our rights and voice our frustrations,” Chesingany stated. “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 attracted residents from all six wards of Marakwet West, all calling for action. Chesingany emphasized the neglect the community faces, saying, “When we ask for projects and support, we receive silence. Our calls for fair appointments and representation have been ignored for too long.”
Newton Chebii, a respected local professional, voiced the shared concerns of the residents. “Professionals from our region are consistently overlooked in both National and County appointments,” he said. “We have supported political parties for years, yet our loyalty has not been rewarded. Today, we are here to demand what is rightfully ours.”
Leaders also expressed disappointment at the lack of attention from high-ranking officials. Despite multiple visits by President Ruto and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to Elgeyo Marakwet, Marakwet West remains excluded. “It’s disheartening to see our leaders visit neighboring areas without acknowledging us,” Chebii remarked. “This sends a message that our needs are not valued.”
Elder Mzee Elias Rotich raised concerns about the disparity in appointments across Elgeyo Marakwet. “In the other constituencies, those who vied for political positions and didn’t succeed have been given alternative jobs. Yet in Marakwet West, we remain neglected despite our loyalty to the government,” he pointed out. “This isn’t just about appointments; it’s about recognizing the dedication of our people.”
Many at the gathering expressed disbelief over the lack of opportunities, particularly given the overwhelming support for the Kenya Kwanza government in the region. “We’ve consistently voted with passion, yet our professionals continue to be ignored,” Chebii noted. “In the recent elections, we supported President Ruto, but we find ourselves in the same position of exclusion.”
Margaret Wangare highlighted the lack of opportunities for women in Marakwet West. “When the government distributes resources and jobs, women from our region are forgotten,” she said. “We are asking for equal consideration and employment opportunities. Our contributions are just as valuable as those from other constituencies.”
Paul Chesire, speaking for many in the room, demanded action. “We want our professionals to be employed. Did we do something wrong that led the President to exclude us?” he asked. “We have invested our hopes in this government, and now it’s time for them to invest in us.”
The leaders demanded a meeting with President Ruto to address their concerns. “We are not begging; we are demanding our rights,” Chesire stated. “Our community has always supported the government, but we feel marginalized. It’s time for us to receive our fair share.”
As the meeting concluded, residents reaffirmed their commitment to continue advocating for their rights. The leaders pledged to organize further gatherings and engage with stakeholders to ensure their voices are heard. “We will not rest until our community is treated with the respect it deserves,” Chesingany vowed.
Marakwet West remains determined to fight for equitable representation in government appointments and projects, with the hope that their persistence will bring about the change they seek.
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