Turkana governor warns staff against alcohol abuse, hires 146 workers

Turkana Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai (c) hands over employment letters to one of the casual workers hired by the county on permanent terms/Mathews Ndanyi

Turkana Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai has cautioned county staff against alcohol abuse and other habits that undermine productivity, warning that such conduct will not be tolerated in the public service.

Speaking in Lodwar on Friday, the governor said alcoholism remains a serious challenge among county employees and residents, noting that indiscipline and neglect of duty have no place in his administration.

“County employees must set a good example to the public. Those who engage in alcoholism and neglect their duties will not be tolerated, because they cannot serve residents effectively while being paid to do so,” Lomorukai said.

He spoke after issuing employment letters to 146 long-serving casual workers, who have now been absorbed into permanent and pensionable terms by the county government.

The new employees, drawn from various departments, received their appointment letters during a ceremony attended by Deputy Governor John Erus and County Public Service Board chairman Peter Ekunyuk.

Lomorukai said the move reflected his administration’s commitment to fairness, inclusion and recognition of long-serving staff, who had dedicated years of service without formal employment.

“This shows my administration values the sacrifice and commitment demonstrated by these workers. We are correcting long-standing irregularities that denied them the dignity of proper terms of service,” he said.

He urged all county employees to raise their performance and commitment to ensure the county meets its development goals.

Erus welcomed the absorption, describing it as part of efforts to build an inclusive and equitable administration. He praised the inclusion of youth, who now account for more than 40 per cent of the county’s workforce.

Ekunyuk said due process was followed in confirming the appointments, adding that eligibility was based on years of voluntary or casual service.

“This phase has covered those who have served for more than five years on a casual or volunteer basis. The next round will focus on technical staff in water services and natural resources,” he said.

Lomorukai reiterated that discipline and integrity would remain the cornerstone of his administration’s workforce.