Government officials reportedly stepped down just moments before they were set to be dismissed from their positions, as a crisis unfolds in Nandi County.
According to sources, two senior county officials submitted their resignations to Nandi County Governor Stephen Sang, who accepted their decisions amidst growing pressure over allegations of mismanagement. The resignations have sparked widespread speculation and debate over the state of governance in the county.
Governor Sang confirmed the resignations of Engineer Drice Kibet Rono, the County Executive Member in charge of Transport and Infrastructure, and Ruth Cherotich Koech, the County Executive Member for Health and Sanitation. In a swift response to the leadership void, the governor appointed his deputy, Yulita Mitei, to serve as the Acting County Executive Member for Health and Sanitation, pending the appointment of a new cabinet member.
The unexpected resignations came just a day after angry residents staged protests in the county, demanding accountability for alleged mismanagement of public resources. On Wednesday, November 18, demonstrators stormed the governor’s office, accusing his administration of failing to deliver essential projects and calling for a comprehensive forensic audit of county finances.
Governor Sang faced a tough crowd but sought to calm tensions by engaging directly with the protesters. Addressing them, he emphasized the importance of dialogue and promised to address their concerns. “I am ready to engage with you in a meaningful dialogue because you have the right to be heard. I have come here to listen to your grievances and ensure that the voices of young people, especially Gen Zs, are heard by the government. Let us work together to find solutions to the challenges we face,” Sang said.
In a bid to address the issues raised and restore confidence in his administration, Governor Sang announced a cabinet reshuffle. This move was aimed at tackling corruption and addressing the stagnation in developmental projects. Among the changes, Alfred Kiprotich Lagat was reassigned as the County Executive Member for Lands, Environment, and Climate Change, while Dr. Philemon Kiptoo Bureti was transferred to serve as the County Executive Member for Trade, Enterprise Development, and Tourism.
Despite the reshuffle, some members retained their roles. Isaiah Kiplagat Keter, the County Executive Member for Administration, Public Service, and ICT, was retained in his position but given additional responsibilities as the Acting County Executive Member for Transport and Infrastructure.
The leadership crisis in Nandi County has drawn public attention, with many residents calling for greater transparency and improved service delivery. Governor Sang has pledged to ensure that his administration works towards regaining public trust and resolving the issues that have plagued the county.
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