A new leadership in the County Government of Elgeyo Marakwet was sworn in a ceremony characterized by handing over symbolizing change of guard.
The new Governor H.E Wisely Kipyegon Rotich was sworn-in at around 12:00 noon in a colourful ceremony presided by High Court Judge justice Hon Reuben Nyakundi.
Elected Members of the National Assembly MPs Kangogo Bowen, Timothy Toroitich, Gideon Kimaiyo, Adams Kipsanai and Women MP Carolyne Ng’elechei were present. Incoming Governor gave apologies for Senator Kipchumba Murkomen.
In his inaugural speech, H.E Rotich recognized the United Democratic Alliance Party (UDA), President elect William Ruto alongside his political supporters and those who stood by him throughout his campaigns whom he credited with his win.
Key in the new governor’s priority is turning around the budget towards transformation of health sector as well as enhancing disease prevention.
The governor promised to equip at least one health facility in every electoral Ward with an Xray and Full haemogram machines, which he said will enhance healthcare provision.
The governor said he will roll over Kazi kwa Vijana through a Hustlers’ fund.
He will also implement Sports Bill enacted by the County Assembly towards promotion of Sports in the County.
Rotich said he will open up three offices; Peace Desk, Resource Mobilization and another one for Higher Education promotion under his Pepea program which he said will address youth unemployment through students’ airlifting program.
On economic activities program, the governor said he would initiate Half an acre cash crop farming amongst households in the Agricultural producing zones in the County.
In the new Rotich government, women will also benefit from “Wamama na Kuku” program that is meant to uplift the economic status of the rural folk.
Governor Rotich said he will perform duty differently by office rotation across the Ward offices.
The governor said his government would provide a proper working environment for everyone and would address challenges that have over the years impaired the proper working of workers in the County Government.
On the same note, he said his administration will carry out staff training and redeployment that is aimed at boosting efficiency.
He will also establish an Efficiency Monitoring Unit which he said will provide surveillance on public services.
The governor warned contractors that it is not going to be business as usual, adding that there should be value for money in every project.
Deputy Governor Prof. Grace Cheserek in her inaugural speech said :” I thank God for the People of Elgeyo Marakwet who accepted our candidature and elected us”.
She praised her boss for having faith in women promising to offer him support throughout their tenure.
“As your Principal Assistant, I will help you achieve your manifesto. I know the passion of the Governor specifically targeting women,” said Cheserek.
“Women empowerment is a core item in Governor Rotich manifesto the same way it is in the Kenya Kwanza Coalition agenda,” said Prof Cheserek.
She described Elgeyo Marakwet as a County known for producing top notch professional athletes and agriculture.
Hon Kipsanai, emphasized on the need for unity urging the governor to ensure the County was solidly united.
Hon Bowen, appreciated the outgoing pioneer Governor Tolgos for his great legacy for steering the County for the last 10 years.
In his Hand-over speech, H.E. Tolgos said serving the County for 10 years was lifetime honour.
Tolgos in his short speech said he was very pleased that he handed over office to a young man whom he described as a competent and a diligent civil servant.
Tolgos also praised Senator Murkomen, outgoing MPs and former MCAs and Assembly Speakers and County Staff for their support throughout his 10 years’ administration.
The event was also graced by development partners, the clergy led by Bishop Dominic Kimengich and elders amongst them Miot Council of elders Chairperson Major Rt. John Seii, former legislators Francis Mutwol, Robert Kipkor Kasertich and Lucas Chepkitony among other high profile guests.
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