Bungoma County Commissioner (CC) Thomas Sankei has expressed concern over the high prevalence of defilement cases in the area.

Sankei said early pregnancies were also occurring at an alarming rate and asked members of the community to come out and protect the girl child in all ways possible.

Speaking at Mateka Primary school ground, Bumula Sub County, during celebrations to mark this year’s Mashujaa day, the County Commissioner pointed out that Bungoma County was also leading in gender-based violence (GBV) and incest cases, vices that he said should be stopped.

Sankei asked parents to protect their children, especially during this school holiday period to save them from people with ill motives.

The administrator equally asked residents to avoid syphoning fuel from petrol tankers that lose control and roll along the Eldoret-Malaba route, warning they were risking their lives.

Only last week, a petrol tanker overturned at Mayanja and residents rushed to draw the spilled fuel.

Deputy County Governor, Jenipher Mbatiany, asked leaders in the area to uphold tolerance and respect for each other ahead of the electioneering period.

She asked residents to respect all leaders including former and those serving currently by recognizing the positive role they have played in the society.

The Deputy Governor, who represented Governor Kenneth Lusaka commended residents for turning up for the event to celebrate people who served the nation selflessly.

By Catherine Nyongesa