Elders launch communal talks to foster peace

Bukusu Council of Elders Chairman Richard Walukano (Centre) reads resolutions while briefing press at ACK Bungoma Diocese church on June 4, 2020. He's flanked by Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya and Devolution CS Eugene Wamalwa [Benjamin Sakwa, Standard]

Founders of the Mabanga Peace Accord have initiated "negotiated democracy" talks with communities in Bungoma and Trans Nzoia counties to foster peace ahead of elections.

Richard Walukano, the accord's implementation team leader, said the group has lined up a series of meetings with elders from various communities in the two counties to create civic education on the importance of the accord.

The accord, which was formulated in 2011 in Bungoma County, provided a roadmap on power-sharing among communities in the two counties.

It has been instrumental in the prevailing peace and coexistence after 2013 and 2017 polls.

Under the agreement, the Bukusu a dominant community in Trans Nzoia County take the governor seat, while senator is reserved for the Sabaot community.

The formation of the cabinet in the two counties is supposed to embrace inclusivity.

During a consultation meeting in Kitale on Friday, Walukano said the group is championing a negotiated democracy as a mechanism to foster peace.

"We have planned a series of meetings with elders from various ethnic groups to create civic education on the importance of peace," said Walukano.

He said the accord has cultivated peace among local communities, especially the Bukusus and Sabaots.