Leaders from pastoralist communities have pledged to remain united and speak with one voice for the benefit of the communities.
The leaders who were speaking during the pastoralists’ leadership summit held in Garissa said they will be united in their position on the referendum, the upcoming national census and boundaries review vowing to block any plans to merge wards, constituencies or counties.
Elgeyo Marakwet Senator and leader of Majority in the Senate Kipchumba Murkomen said merging counties or wards could be more divisive than elections and called on fellow leaders from the pastoral communities to resist such a move.
“We are not visitors in Kenya. We are part and parcel of this nation. We deserve respect and dignity.” Senator Murkomen said.
Leader of Majority in the National Assembly Aden Duale said they were ready to defend devolution adding that they will not allow any ward to be taken away from the people during the boundary review.
“Try monkey business in taking any ward, constituency or even counties, we will defend devolution and we will support referendum if it is increasing of funds for the counties from 15 to 70 percent,” Duale said.
Marsabit Governor Mohammed Ali said Pastoralist counties will work together as new, strong and vibrant communities in the Country adding that the new found unity will ensure that Pastoralists are never again referred to as small ethnic groups.
The Summit attracted leaders from across 15 Counties and was aimed at consolidating the needs of the pastoralist communities and putting forward solutions as well as charting new Economic, Social and Political paths.
