The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr has strongly condemned the ongoing vandalism of vital facilities in markets throughout the county.
He criticized those responsible for these criminal acts, stating that such behavior amounts to economic sabotage and negatively affects the delivery of services to local traders.
Governor Mutula specifically highlighted the destruction of solar panels and water meters, which not only disrupt market operations and cleanliness but also diminish traders’ comfort.
He emphasized that the functioning of markets, especially at night, is severely impacted, with traders being forced to close early, leading to increased security concerns in and around the market areas.
The Governor addressed 82 newly elected market chairpersons at Green Park in Wote town, stressing that it was their duty to protect government assets from theft and mismanagement.
“Market chairpersons must take full responsibility for safeguarding government facilities from theft and mismanagement. The theft of solar panels and water meters has disrupted essential services, and if this continues, the entire county will suffer,” Mutula said.
He also highlighted the need for proper support structures for market leadership, encouraging chairpersons to collaborate with others to improve service delivery within the markets.
“Market chairpersons need a designated space where they can address disputes among traders and effectively communicate important information to the public,” he added.
Director of the Department of Trade and Development, Harrison Kiandiko, mentioned plans to provide training for officials in rural areas, equipping them with the skills needed to improve efficiency, accountability, and resource management in local markets.
The chairpersons, representing various groups, were inducted on how to better manage the markets in the county.
During the meeting, the chairpersons raised concerns about insecurity in the markets, poor waste management, the lack of protective gear for market cleaners, and called on the government to install floodlights to illuminate the markets at night.
Other attendees included Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili, County Secretary Justin Kyambi, County Executive Committee Members (CECMs) for Devolution Nicolas Nzioka, Lands, and Finance Japheth Mang’oka, and Damaris Kavoi.
