Panic as leaflets circulated in Nandi County ahead of demo

Police and other security agents have raised concern over hate leaflets being circulated in major towns in the county.

The leaflets allegedly warn a section of non-residents to move out of the area ahead of a demonstration dubbed 'Operation Linda Nandi' which is set to take place today.

The authors of the leaflets are not yet known and police said they have launched investigations to establish their origin.

The demonstration is organised by a group of contractors who accuse Governor Cleophas Lagat of withholding their money and favouring non-residents in appointments.

They have also alleged he is consistently away from his office and unable to chair county cabinet meetings.

Lagat has, however, dismissed the accusations against him, adding that the contractors were out to blackmail him.

Constant threats

Speaking in Kapsabet, the county boss claimed he has been a victim of constant blackmail and threats by 'unscrupulous private contractors' seeking county's tenders.

"The contractors are trying to use Nandi residents to further blackmail me," he said.

Lagat, who declared he will not give in to blackmail, said his county government was committed to equitable distribution of job opportunities in the county.

"We are keen to ensure that job and empowerment opportunities are shared equitably among all groups including the youth, women and people with disabilities. I cannot allow a few privileged individuals to dictate how this county is run," said Lagat.

Issuing a stern warning to the said contractors and other individuals who were out to force the hands of county officials on tender awards, Lagat asked county officials to report any cases of intimidation to the relevant authorities.

He also called on Nandi residents to give him time to deliver on his promises.