Tokenism or development? Dark shadow shrouds empowerment drives amid chaotic scenes, looting
Police were forced to shoot in the air to disperse the rowdy mob that was scrambling for the items that had been put on display prior to the meeting
A dark shadow hangs over the government’s economic empowerment initiative following the violent looting of goods meant for the program in Ruiru, Kiambu county amid mixed reactions over the move pundits claims amount to tokenism as opposed to development oriented initiative.
Last weekend’s meeting attended by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki at the Ruiru Vocational Training Institute turned chaotic when suspected goons descended on goodies that had been bought to empower women and youth groups from the area, including motorbikes, power generators and hair dryers among other items.
Police were forced to shoot in the air to disperse the rowdy mob that was scrambling for the items that had been put on display prior to the meeting.
Critics have termed the move as an empty public relations stunts that amounts to tokenism for political expediency as opposed to a sustainable development agenda.
The DP was the chief guest at the event hosted by area MP Simon King’ara and attended by several parliamentarians led by National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, as well as Information Communication and Technology Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo.
There was pandemonium as people, mostly women, scampered for safety when young men stormed the venue moments after Kindiki and his entourage had left, in the process overpowering civilian security hired by King’ara’s office.
Gunshots rang out as police attempted to scare away the goons who were making away with motorcycles, generators and water tanks among others that were meant to be distributed to various groups.
Some were captured on video footage rolling water tanks on the ground while others took off with various items aloft their shoulders.
Ruiru police commander Charles Kibathi said 29 motorbikes were recovered out of the 30 that were to be given to boda boda operators. One bike that had carried the DP to his helicopter was reportedly stolen.
“No one has been arrested yet and we were informed that whoever disappeared with the motorbike is known, so tracking his down will be easy,” said Kibathi when reached on phone.
Addressing the meeting earlier, Kindiki said the Kenya Kwanza administration welcomes constructive criticism but warned the opposition against inciting members of the public.
“We are not opposed to alternative views and even those who differ with the government have their rights. The government is led by humans and we welcome divergent opinions, but not politics of incitement and divisions,” said Kindiki.
The DP also said President William Ruto’s leadership is not afraid of elections and cautioned opposition leaders against putting the country on a campaign mode.
“We still have a long way to the 2027 elections and as a government we are focused on delivering on our pre-election pledges which include improving the livelihoods of our people,” he stated.
