Elders, leaders moot plan to install Matiangi as Gusii spokesperson

Gusii Council of Elders chairman James Matundura addresses the media in Kisii town on the plans to install Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiangi as an elder and community spokesperson. [Sammy Omingo, Standard]

Gusii Council of Elders and elected leaders from the region have initiated a process to have Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i crowned Gusii elder and spokesperson. 

Speaking on Sunday afternoon at Kisii Agricultural Training College (ATC) after attending a meeting which was also graced by Matiang'i and Health Principal Secretary Susan Mochache, the leaders said the CS had what it takes to lead the community.

The CS, however, left the meeting without addressing the media though elected leaders had a word for the community; Matiang’i could henceforth be speaking on behalf of the community.

Steve Menge who spoke on behalf of the Gusii Council of elders, said the community has for years been yearning for an individual who could speak on their behalf.

“We have requested him (Matiang’i) to accept proposal and have him elevated to a Gusii elder and main spokesperson. We will set a date to formally give him that mandate.”

Kisii Governor James Ongwae and his Nyamira counterpart Amos Nyaribo as well senators Prof Sam Ongeri, Okongo Omogeni, Woman Representatives Janet Ongera and Jerusha Momanyi also attended the meeting.

Governor Ongwae said the meeting was solely organised by the Council of Elders. “We all agree as elected leaders that the formative leaders will have more meetings to formalise on the process. Other elected leaders will be incorporated into the process.”

He said the elders have the responsibility to unite the community and have its leaders speak in one voice in regards to development, the political process and social well-being.

Governor Nyaribo said they have carefully considered the proposal from the elders and are in agreement that the community needs to address their issues through the guidance of a community leader.

According to Senator Ongeri, there is need to embrace unity and peace among leaders.

“The Cabinet Secretary has done his part in uniting the country. The community has to give him support in his undertakings.”

The next phase in the Matiang’i coronation process is to try to bring on board MPs and MCAs from the region.

In July 2019, at Riokindo High School in Kisii, the Abagusii Council of Elders had made their first attempt to have Matiang’i crowned as an elder after they laid hands on him, a symbolic community blessing of leaders going for higher positions.