As Kenya marks 59 years of self-rule from its colonial master, measures should be put in place to honour and sustain individuals who participated in the fight for independence, as the majority of survivors are living in deplorable conditions.
Paulo Ambuchi Ekeya, a freedom fighter from Agong’et Village Aterait Location in Teso North Sub County has called on the government to look into the plight of freedom fighters, who are still alive and wallowing in poverty.
Ekeya, who turned 108 last month, was on the forefront in the battle against the white man, having served the country with commitment during his prime years.
“Besides fighting in the Second World War, I was part of the team that was sent on various peacekeeping missions around the globe, and won many medals for my country,” he said.
The veteran fighter however lamented that nothing has been done to him to acknowledge his immense contribution to the republic.
“Very few of my surviving colleagues have received the Head of State commendation, even though they are still poor and sickly,” said Ekeya, while reaching out to the President to intervene.
He added that most freedom fighters are languishing in abject poverty because their livelihood base was destroyed by colonialists during the independence struggle.
Speaking during the commemoration of Jamhuri day at Bujwang’a Primary School in Funyula Sub- County, Busia Governor Dr. Paul Otuoma appealed to President William Ruto’s administration to set up a financial kitty within government expenditure that will take care of the welfare of freedom fighters and their families.
“The greatest honour our freedom fighters can be given is to be supported financially by the government to live with dignity,” said Otuoma.
The governor urged the government to also consider the plight of surviving families of the fallen heroes who died in the course of fighting for independence so that the blood they shed would not have been spilt in vain.
“It is regrettable that our freedom heroes shed their blood and some of them even died in the hands of our former colonizers,” he said.
“Those who are alive continue in abject poverty due to neglect by the government,” Otuoma added, promising to collaborate with the National government to ensure that the situation is addressed.
Angúrai East Member of County Assembly David Parapara appealed to well-wishers to join hands with the government in ensuring that freedom fighters are taken care of.
“Some of them have been neglected by their families due to pressing demands of old age. We need to set up homes and employ people who will be responsible for preparing meals, treatment and general welfare,” said Parapara, adding that this will increase their lifespan.
By Joshua Opili and Absalom Namwalo
