A section of farmers and small scale traders in Mwea East sub county have termed as “unwise” the move by some Kirinyaga County leaders to politicize development projects being launched by the national government in the area.
Led by their Secretary Michael Chomba the group claimed that area Governor Anne Waiguru was interfering with such projects for political mileage.
The group particularly took issue with Waiguru for castigating Interior Principal Secretary Karanja Kibicho who has been spearheading implementation of national government projects in the area.
In a hurriedly convened press conference at a PIA Hotel Friday, Chomba and his group urged the governor to instead appreciate Kibicho and his team for initiating and lobbying for development projects for the county.
“It is saddening to see our governor going round the county politicking on development projects after the PS and his counterparts spent a whole day inspecting a number of projects the national government had financed in the county,” said the secretary.
Chomba further said among the projects visited were those promised by President Uhuru Kenyatta to the area residents when he visited Mwea early this year.
He cited the Sh 9 billion worth of roads set to be tarmacked before the end of the year, adding that upon completion farmers will be able to transport their fresh produce to various markets, unlike currently when such commodities go to waste due to the poor road networks.
“We will not sit back and watch a section of the area leadership with no vision for their people, insult those who are working hard for the sake of residents, they should know all that we want is development and not empty political rhetoric,” stated Chomba.
A farmer from Njukiini, Francis Mutegi who was part of the group accused Waiguru of hiring desperate youths as goons to insult leaders during her meetings and also using abusive language on social media.
Mutegi said such youths should be considered for Uwezo Fund and undergo trainings that would help them grow economically empowerment instead of depending on handouts from some crafty politicians.
He also took issue with the non-completion of the Ngariama –Njukiini water project whose contractor was allegedly paid Sh 14 million by the county government for work not done.
Another farmer, Njeri Muruga said women in the county supported all elected leaders in the area, but the county leadership service delivery was wanting.
She said although she fully supports women leadership, it was apparent that Waiguru had neglected the women in terms of development as corruption allegedly derailed her administration.
By Irungu Mwangi
Stop politicizing development projects, farmers urge
