Nyaribari Chache MP defends Arati from attacks

Nyaribari Chache MP Zaheer Jhanda has vowed to support beleaguered Kisii Governor Simba Arati.

Jhanda took issue with fellow leaders over their constant attacks on the governor and vowed to work with him.

“Some people are unhappy with my relationship with Arati. Our recent visit to State House where we met President William Ruto has caused jitters in some circles. However, I want to state that I support Governor Arati and will work with him,” the UDA MP said.

“Some leaders have started fighting him, they are unhappy because we went to State House with Arati. It’s too early to start wars with the governor.”

Jhanda said top of the agenda during the meeting Ruto was establishing the centre of excellence in health education and training in Kisii under the Kenya-UK Health Alliance.

Kisii senator Richard Onyonka, MPs Japheth Nyakundi (Kitutu Chache North), Anthony Kibagendi (Kitutu Chache South) and Sylvanus Osoro (South Mugirango) have in the recent past led an onslaught against Arati.

They have accused Arati of alleged profiling and parading of staff, reneging on pre-election campaign deals, and transferring of staff from a particular clan to less lucrative postings.

“As elected leaders, we should work together to uplift the lives of our people. Arati is our governor for the next five years and he should be supported,” Jhanda said.

The MP also warned against interfering with the boundaries of Nyaribari Chache constituency.

“We can’t allow even an inch of land to be taken elsewhere,” he said.

Jhanda further assured his voters that he will transform the constituency.

“There have been murmurs that I have abandoned you, that’s far from the truth. We were elected in August, I have been away trying to organise and position myself. I’m now back and ready to serve you,” he said.

He said his absence from the constituency was also attributed to a court case that stopped the disbursement of the National Government Constituency Development Fund.

“You overwhelmingly voted for me. I garnered a whooping 35,000 votes, the highest votes by an MP in Kisii, I cannot abandon you,” Jhanda said.

The legislator promised to fulfill his pre-election pledges, which include improvement of the road network and school infrastructure.

Also, fair distribution of NG-CDF and bursaries and payment of the National Hospital Insurance Fund for the elderly and vulnerable in the society.

Jhanda further said the constituency lacks piped water despite hosting the Kegati water supply.

“I will meet the Water Cabinet secretary and discuss the issue. The people of Nyaribari Chache must benefit from Kegati water supply,” he said.