Nandi Governor Stephen Sang has defended his record in response to increasing pressure to account for over Sh40 billion allocated during his tenure. Some residents and youth have criticized Sang’s seven-year term, claiming he has failed to complete any significant projects since taking office.
They have threatened to protest in Kapsabet town and occupy the county headquarters to demand accountability from the governor.
Sang dismissed the accusations, labeling those opposing him as “criminals.” “We have completed hundreds of projects in Nandi County across various sectors, including early childhood education, health facilities, agricultural initiatives, water projects, roads, and other structures that I have personally inaugurated,” he told the Star.
He also noted that many other projects are ready for official opening, although they are already complete and operational.
“They keep on mentioning just a few that are over 95 per cent complete and they shall be commissioned soon. We have done so much,” he said.
However, the governor did not specify any of the projects he claimed to have completed. Tensions escalated in the town on Tuesday as youth armed with clubs gathered to prevent the planned demonstrations.
They occupied the streets, harassing residents, halting gatherings, and forcing businesses to close. While police were present, they did not intervene with the armed youth, whom the governor described as being brought in to “safeguard investments.”
“I am told Kapsabet business community took precautions to protect their businesses against planned destruction and looting of their businesses by the goons and criminals engaged by political operatives and opportunists who are planning to infiltrate planned peaceful demonstrations,” the governor said.
He alleged that there was “leaked information” suggesting that those organizing the demonstrations intended to send goons to target businesses believed to be owned by him.
The organizers had “circulated false information claiming that he owns several businesses in Kapsabet.” He added that the business community has the right to protect their properties and livelihoods. While he acknowledged that protesters are free to exercise their rights, he insisted that they must not attempt to destroy people’s livelihoods.
“We also expect the security teams to protect the protestors and ensure that they exercise their rights within the confines of the law,” Sang said.
“The business community must also protect their businesses within the confines of the law.”
The county boss urged any demonstrators who wish to raise issues to do so through legal and peaceful means.
“I am always available to listen, respond and address all issues raised. I have done that before and will always do that into the future. I am currently in the office running my normal official work,” he said.
But even in the face of the allegations, some youth, who gathered at Namgoi, defended the governor.
“We know those planning the demo are politically motivated to undermine the governor whom we know has performed very well,” said Jonnes Kirwa.
