Sang defends his record amid pressure to account for billions

Nandi Governor Stephen Sang has defended his record amid mounting pressure to account for more than Sh40 billion allocated during his tenure.

A section of residents and youth questioned Sang’s seven-year term, accusing him of failing to complete any meaningful projects since he took over.

“We are completely dissatisfied with the performance of the county government and the governor and his team must explain to us where all the money allocated to the county was invested,” a resident said.

They threatened to carry out protests in Kapsabet town and occupy the county headquarters, demanding accountability from the county chief.

But Sang laughed off the accusations, terming those against him as “criminals”.

“We have completed hundreds and hundreds of projects in Nandi county spanning across ECDE in the education sector, health facilities, agricultural projects, water projects, road and other structures which I have personally officially opened,” the governor told the Star.

Many other projects are scheduled for official opening, but they are complete and operational, he added. 

“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.

The governor did not however name any of the projects he had completed.

Tension was high in the town on Tuesday, where youth armed with rungus gathered to stop the planned demos.

They took over the streets and harassed residents, stopping any gatherings and causing businesses to shut down.

Police were present but did not interfere with the armed youth, whom the governor said were 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 claimed there was ‘leaked information’ indicating that the demo planners would send goons to target businesses thought to be owned by him. 

The planners had “circulated false information that he owns several businesses in Kapsabet”.

He added that the business communities are also entitled to protect their properties and livelihoods.

Protestors were free to enjoy their rights but 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.