Services in Uasin Gishu County have been paralyzed following the recent Finance Bill protests in Eldoret town. Last week, protesters burned down a law court and several vehicles, and vandalized and looted the county’s national library.
In response, Governor Jonathan Bii withdrew county enforcement officers from the streets, and they have yet to resume work. This move has resulted in the county losing millions of shillings due to the failure to collect parking fees and other charges.
Top officials stated that the governor is currently working on a strategy to restore normalcy.
“The county lost a lot but we are working on ways to restore operations as soon as possible,” an executive said.
Bii held meetings with church leaders and elders to restore peace and unity.
Willy Kenei, Chamber of Commerce and Industry region’s chairperson said the business community lost a lot.
“Very many businesses were vandalised and looted in Eldoret town. We urge residents to work together to restore peace for normalcy to resume,” he said.
More than 30 mobile phones and electronics shops were looted, forcing traders to do repairs before resuming work.
Kenei said the organisation will support the traders to resume normal operations.
KDF soldiers have been patrolling Eldoret streets to maintain security. Courts have also resumed work.
Eldoret Chief Magistrate Dennis Mikoyan said Judiciary Is doing everything to serve residents effectively.
“One of our courts at the county headquarters was destroyed but we are working to ensure we all resume work and serve Kenyans,” he said.
Bishop Wililson Kuria urged Kenyans to keep peace and support the government in implementing changes it promised in the wake of the protests.
“The President has promised dialogue among other changes and we are asking that he be given time to fulfill his promises,” he said.
