Wetangula: Governors Mandago, Tolgos behaving badly

Ford Kenya leader and Senate Minority Leader, Moses Wetangula, has condemned the recent Moi University demonstrations led by Governors Jackson Mandago (Uasin Gishu) and Alex Tolgos (Elgeyo Marakwet) protesting the appointment of Prof Laban Ayiro as the varsity’s acting Vice Chancellor.

Wetangula termed the act as barbaric and unacceptable in the context of a modern democracy.

“On behalf of Ford Kenya, I wish to condemn in the strongest terms possible the behavior and conduct of these two governors. Governors Mandago and Tolgos behavior is not consistent with expectations and spirit of Chapter 10 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010,” said Wetangula.

“These governors ought to know that Prof Laban Ayiro’s appointment is based and anchored on meritocracy,” added Wetangula, who has been away attending the United National General Assembly in New York.

Wetangula said Kenya was moving into the mature democratic space where leaders are expected to place a premium on meritocracy and there is no room for retrogressive leadership.

“We must not allow leaders to incite citizens to violence because this is primitive and barbaric, besides being criminal.”

The Bungoma Senator said it is sad that the two governors and a numbers of legislators were rubbing their hands in glee after engaging in criminal activities.

“I call upon the national authorities to move with speed and arraign these leaders in court. We expect the same energy that we saw around Pangani Six and Muthaiga Two in play. It is clear that these leaders have engaged in criminal activities.”

He called upon Prof Ayiro to discharge his duties without fear or favour.

“Prof Ayiro got his appointment on merit and he must serve Moi University to the best of his abilities. His ability to deliver is not in doubt.”

Wetangula called upon the media to stop referring to Prof Ayiro as embattled, saying the acting VC is not fighting anybody.

“Prof Ayiro has assumed his responsibilities. It is just a few misguided leaders making unnecessary and mischievous demands,” added Wetangula.

“We expect the Jubilee leadership to crack the whip. We also expect NCIC chair Francis ole Kaparo to move with speed and initiate measures to enhance national cohesion instead of behaving like bystanders.”