Baringo South MP slams “Maa MPs” over Laromoru school demolition

Baringo South Member of Parliament, MP Charles Kamuren has sharply criticized a group of legislators known as the “Maa MPs” for defending Kenya Forest Service (KFS) Chief Conservator Alex Lemarkoko following the demolition of Laromoru Primary School in Mukutani Forest.

This follows after the Maa MPs held a press briefing last week supporting Lemarkoko amid backlash from other lawmakers over the destruction.

MP Kamuren rejected what he called ethnic-based representation, stressing that MPs are elected to represent constituencies, not ethnic groups.

“In the Constitution, there is no such thing as Maa MPs. Each member represents a specific constituency. By claiming otherwise, you have gone against the law. Baringo South has a member elected by the people of Baringo South, and that is me,” he said.

The lawmaker said the Ilchamus community in his constituency is satisfied with his leadership and described the Maa MPs’ comments as unfair.

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“You claim to speak for the Maa, but you need to clarify which tribe and area you represent. My people from Ilchamus elected me, and I serve them well. Next time, refrain from speaking on matters of other constituencies. It was misplaced and uncalled for,” he added.

On the Laromoru School, Kamuren confirmed the demolition but said he holds no personal grudge against the Chief Conservator.

“KFS destroyed the school on a Sunday. This was a temporary iron-sheet structure up to grade six, including the administration block and toilets. We set it up to address long-standing insecurity in this banditry-prone area,” he said.

Kamuren emphasized that education has been a key tool for promoting peace.

“We started the school to combat banditry. Communities evicted 25 years ago are now returning, and education helps sustain the stability we have achieved,” he said, questioning why only the school for the Pokot community was demolished while others for Ilchamus, Tugen and Endorois remained intact.

He called for the school to be allowed to operate temporarily while consultations continue.

“Children cannot be denied education. Let the school run as we find a solution,” he said.

By Our Reporter