Gusii leaders have condemned youths who heckled former Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu during a funeral in Amariba village, Kisii County, terming the act a betrayal and a violation of the community’s cultural values. The incident happened on Friday during the burial of Esther Tong’i, mother to former Nyaribari Chache MP Richard Tong’i.
The leaders noted that Machogu initiated many education development projects in the region during his short tenure in the Ministry of Education before his removal by President William Ruto, and urged the youth to accord him the respect he deserves.
“This is one of the most senior elders in the community who should not be shouted at in public,” said Prof Sam Ongeri.
Machogu, who was told to “shut up” by some in the crowd, controlled his anger and reminded the community of an unspecified birthright that had been restored to them. He urged residents to shun divisive politics and instead unite and work hard on their farms to raise money for their children’s education.
He praised the late Esther Tong’i, saying she and her husband embraced Christianity and encouraged their children to pursue quality education for the stability and continuity of their family.
“The family valued good education for their children. That is why they stayed well up to this good age before they died, because they were in the good caring hands of knowledgeable sons and daughters,” he said.
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The burial was attended by elected leaders, church pastors, and the area MP Zaheer Jhanda. In an indirect response to Machogu’s earlier remarks referring to him as a foreigner, Jhanda said:
“I respect Machogu like my father. He is a parent like me. Let us respect each other please.”
Kisii Deputy Governor Elijah Obebo called for peace, urging leaders to collaborate so that both the National and County governments can work as a team for the region’s quick development.
“We have all the wanting infrastructure in our schools and hospitals that need our energies and finance to support, but instead we are wasting time on small political differences,” he said.
Abagusii Council of Elders chairman Matundura Araka condemned leaders for using funerals to settle political scores, saying it violated the community’s traditions.
Following the tensions at the funeral, Kisii Governor Simba Arati summoned several area leaders to his office on August 13 for consultations on how to pacify the region. MPs Japhet Nyakundi (Kitutu Chache North), Sylvanus Osoro (South Mugirango), and Alpha Miruka (Bomachoge Chache) agreed to work on improving school and road infrastructure, and creating better market access for farm produce.
“We had a fruitful meeting with the Governor and hope it will bring a lot of development changes for our people,” said Alpha Miruka.
By Enock Okong’o
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