APS wants names of Meru and Tharaka Nithi counties changed

Chuka University Vice Chancellor Erastus Njoka displays an artist impression of the proposed science park at the institution main campus in Chuka,on June 6,2017 at his office. The park will cost Sh 3 billion to construct. Photo Peter Muthomi

The Ameru Professionals Association (APS) wants the names of Meru and Tharaka Nithi counties changed.

The association chaired by Chuka University Vice Chancellor Erastus Njoka said this when it held its annual general meeting at the weekend.

Prof Njoka, who is also the Njuri Ncheke Council of elders patron, said the reason for their push was to restore the identity and unity of all Ameru who live in the area between Thuci river and Ntonyiri, the farthest end of Meru County.

“As professionals from the two counties, we sat together to deliberate on economic, social and political development of the larger Meru where it was agreed renaming the two counties is imperative as we strive to restore the identity and unity of larger Meru. Professionals proposed that Meru be renamed Meru North County while Tharaka Nithi be known as Meru South,” Prof Njoka said at a press briefing at the university Saturday.

Njoka said the members' agreement reflected the wishes of the people, many of who felt they had been denied the privilege of cultural or political identity.

“The current names seem to be divisive,” he added.