The Mountain Journal
Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata has pledged to support victims of the fuel price protest with compensation from the emergency fund kitty.
Kang’ata spoke when he toured the traders affected by the destruction of their business premises on Monday night, when the criminals took advantage of the darkness.
“ From the emergency fund, the county government will allocate a small kitty to assist the affected traders resume to their businesses,” said Kang’ata accompanied by Murang’a Town MCA Charles Machigo, also a victim.
He pleaded with the victims to register with the Municipal Manager Bernard Mugo and the MCA Mr Machigo for the compensation process.
He however warned the politicians to stop implicating the Monday night chaos to his move to decamp from the UDA party three weeks ago.
“ Let those spreading the rumors instead of causing terror face me politically,” said Kang’ata, saying the majority of those who suffered are his allies.
Kangata said it was difficult to believe that those who looted and destroyed shops in Murang’a Town are true sons and daughters of Murang’a.
“Murang’a people are known for hard work, respect for others, and protection of private property. What we witnessed does not reflect who we are as a community,” he explained.
He pointed to the demonstrators, ‘We urge you: let your voice be heard, but let it be heard peacefully. To those who took advantage of the situation to destroy and steal, we ask you to reflect on the harm you have caused your own neighbors and town.’
Machigo called on the residents to remain vigilant and ensure action is taken.
“ The political stand of the governor should not let the whole town suffer,” said Machigo, adding that investigations have revealed that those who caused mayhem were ferried to Murang’a town.
Among the business premises attacked included the Weaver Bird Limited, Mobile Phone Shop and Maguna’s Wholesalers, and a lawyer’s offices.
Businessman Joe Kanguchu claimed that the government was responsible for funding the goons to cause chaos in Murang’a, for a political purpose.
“ Those who participated in the demonstrations were ferried as they were asking for directions to places, a proof they were strangers,” said Kanguchu.
