Tension is high in Lokichar, Turkana South sub-county after some former employees of a company sub contracted to deliver supplies to Tullow Oil Company held demonstrations over their dismissal.
The protestors, who were demanding an explanation as to why they were laid off and their positions taken by new employees, at the weekend obstructed roads leading to oil sites in Ngamia one camp site.
Speaking to The Standard, MCA Raphael Loperito (Lokichar) said he was saddened by the fact that his people were laid off without explanation.
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He said he has since established that only five locals have been employed following the lay off.
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However in a statement, Tullow Oil said it is open to negotiations.
"Tullow Oil and its suppliers are committed to resolve any issues through discussions and negotiations with the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, Ministry of Labour and county leaders," the statement read in part.
A similar occurrence happened last year in October when Tullow's operations at the Lokichar site were temporarily halted after locals demonstrated alleging bias on employment opportunities.
