Senator Gideon Moi calls for more resources for marginalised communities

West Pokot Governor-elect John Lonyangapuo is handed over arm of power by county’s out going Governor Simon Kachapin (right), during his swearing in ceremony, at Kishaunet Showgrounds . 21.08.2017. PHOTOS BY PETER OCHIENG/STANDARD

Baringo Senator Gideon Moi has called on the Government to channel more resources to marginalised areas.

Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony of West Pokot Governor-elect John Lonyangapuo (Kanu), Gideon also called for fresh efforts to restore peace in volatile counties such as West Pokot to pave way for development and improve the lives of local communities.

Gideon challenged leaders to do more to revamp peace in volatile areas.

"The insecurity problem affects all people. Security starts with leaders who are committed to peace to help the marginalised communities," he said.

The Kanu chairman asked the Pokot community to support his presidency bid in 2022.

"I will be in the 2022 race and the Pokot community should vote for me. When I go to the Senate, I will push for 30 per cent revenue allocation (from natural resources) that goes to the county so that it can help to reduce poverty since the Pokots have been marginalised for a long time," the senator told Kanu supporters who attended the ceremony at Kishaunet show ground.

The senator said with the geothermal energy in Baringo, oil in Turkana and cement in West Pokot County, the 30 per cent share will go a long way alleviating poverty in our counties.

Lonyangapuo said fighting insecurity will be his first priority and urged pastoral communities to co-exist peacefully.

The governor said the county is working on a proposal that will help end perennial conflict.

"We are working on a proposal to the national government on ending perennial conflict before December this year. We want all communities to live in peace as we seek out a solution," he said.

He added: "All communities must work together to ensure the region is safe. We will work with the Government to ensure that everyone lives in peace with their neighbour," said the governor.

Other leaders present included Kiambu Senator Kimani wa Matangi, West Pokot Senator Samuel Poghisio and MPs from Turkana, West Pokot and Nakuru counties.

Lonyangapuo beat immediate former governor Simon Kachapin to clinch the seat. Mr Kachapin has since conceded defeat and promised to work with the new governor.

Turkana Governor Josphat Nanok said the pastoral region has lagged behind in development due to insecurity and cattle rustling.

Tiaty MP Kamket William pledged to unite and work with Lonyangapuo to ensure the security operations being conducted in Laikipia and Pokot East are halted, claiming the Pokot community have been humiliated and denied their right of being protected by the Government.

The leaders said Lonyangapuo's election heralds a new dawn in the fight against cattle rustling.