President Uhuru Kenyatta has commended the coastal people for observing peace during the holy month of Ramadhan.
In a message delivered by Cabinet Secretary Ministry for Interior and Coordination of National Government (CS), Dr. Fred Matiang’i said there were no major cases of insecurity in the region and commended members of the public and security agents in the region for the peace enjoyed during the Ramadhan period.
The CS said effects of improved security have been noted through increased tourism activities.
Matiang’i conveyed the President’s good wishes to the Muslim community in the country as they celebrate Idd Ul Fitr.
He called on Kenyans to embrace peace and humility of the Islamic faith as they observed the month of Ramadhan.
The CS said with the spirit of Idd the country should unite as a family for progress involving all communities, adding that time for divisive politics was over as was demonstrated by the president and opposition leader Raila Odinga in working together to unite the nation.
He said it is time for both elected leaders and those in public service to render service to the people. Politics time will come in 2022 but now it is time to deliver to Kenyans on best services possible.
Matiang’i assured Mombasa leaders that the thorny issue of the Port of Mombasa will be resolved once all stakeholders come together to resolve the stalemate amicably.
Mombasa leaders have opposed a plan to privatize the Port of Mombasa in what they claim will deny locals and the country ownership of the now public port.
Speaking in Mombasa on Wednesday the members of Parliament from the area said the country risks losing the property to a private company Maersk Shipping Company (MSC).
The Kisauni Member of Parliament, Ali Mbogo said over 27 MPs from the coastal region, including Senators and Women representatives are opposed to the move to privatize the second Mombasa Port Terminal.
“I will sit with all leaders today to look into the development issues affecting the region before I go back to Nairobi to guarantee progress in the national government projects, It is time to work to deliver on the promises we made to Kenyans,” said Matiang’i.
He said within one week the government will see where there are challenges, including contractors.
“I want to tell you the truth our business is not to entertain lazy people who waste public resources. If one is unable to work we will ask them to leave to look for those who want to work for our people,” warned Matiang’i.
He commended the security agents for the reduced cases of insecurity in the region and thanked the people of Mombasa for cooperating with security agents led by the regional commissioner.
The CS said the government is working with the youth, nongovernmental organizations and religious leaders to cordially work on the issue of security as government and the people together.
“We will work on security and all the issues raised, including human rights to see that nobody’s rights are violated.”
He said the Mombasa immigration offices for passport processing and issuance of birth certificates will be expanded to meet the demands of the regional residents.
“We have tried but not to the expected levels but we will work on it soonest possible.”
By Joseph Kamolo
