Marsabit governor Mohamud Ali has urged residents to safeguard peace and unity, ahead of the 2027 General election, warning political aspirants against using campaigns to divide communities.

Speaking during the 17th Mashujaa Day celebrations in Moyale,  Ali said political competition should be based on ideas and development agendas rather than hostility, noting that peace was essential for the county’s continued development.

The governor called on residents to honour Kenya’s freedom fighters by promoting peace, unity and development across the country.

Ali said Mashujaa Day was an opportunity for Kenyans to reflect on the sacrifices made by the country’s past heroes and heroines towards making freedom meaningful for future generations.

“There are days when a nation must look back with gratitude and days when it must look ahead with responsibility,” he said, urging residents to consider what future generations would say about the values and principles they stood for.

Ali praised community elders, religious leaders, youth and peace partners for promoting reconciliation among communities that had previously experienced conflict.

The governor also announced that his administration was pursuing key development projects including the issuance of title deeds across the county, improved piped-water supply in Moyale, amid plans to also tarmack some roads in Moyale in the town.

He said funding they had already secured funding for the proposed water project, with imported supply expected soon.

Marsabit County Commissioner (CC) Stanley Kamande called on parents to protect children during the school holidays, warning against female genital mutilation (FGM), forced marriages, teenage pregnancies and exposure to drugs and alcohol.

He also cautioned against hate speech on social media, warning that individuals using digital platforms to incite violence or undermine peace would face legal action.

Kamande further urged youth in Moyale to use established channels to present grievances instead of blocking roads, saying demonstrations that disrupt transport and access to essential services inconveniences the public.

The CC revealed that the government had stocked 22,650 bags of beans and an equal number of 50-kilograms bags of rice across Marsabit County in preparation for possible El Nino-related emergencies.

Deputy Governor Solomon Riwe said Mashujaa day should recognize not only national heroes, but also ordinary citizens who protect their families, educate their children, safeguard the environment and promote peace.

Laisamis MP Joseph Lekuton said heroes and heroines are not only people who are famous, but also ordinary people who make sacrifices every day to improve  the lives of others.

“Heroes and heroines include women who provide for their families, fetch water, and perform household duties, as well as responsible husbands who care for their families and educate their children,” he said.

The MP said teachers are heroes for imparting knowledge and skills, just like the police officers who maintain security in the  villages, while also honouring Members of County Assembly (MCA), governor  and county government workers for their immense contribution through law making and offering leadership, while also championing for peace and development.

Lekuton also recognized President Dr. William Ruto for initiating development projects and programmes across the country.

Marsabit County NACADA Coordinator Mohamed Wako raised concerns over drug and substance abuse, warning that the problem was threatening the future of young people in the county.

Wako appealed to the county administration and other relevant stakeholders to establish a rehabilitation centre to support people struggling with addiction.

He commended security agencies for their crackdown on illicit brews and urged the authorities to strengthen prevention and rehabilitation efforts.

Leaders present reflected on the sacrifices of Kenya’s freedom fighters, including the Kapenguria Six, following the declaration of a state of emergency on October 20, 1952.

They urged residents to preserve the legacy of those who fought for independence by promoting peace, responsible leadership and unity, even as the country prepares for the 2027 General Elections.

By Anthony Melly