Laikipia Erupts: Outrage Over Pastor Dorcas’ Rehab Center Sparks Protests
Wednesday, a portion of Rumuruti town residents in Laikipia County demonstrated against the planned construction of a wellness and rehabilitation center by Second Lady Pastor Dorcas Rigathi.
During their demonstrations, the protestors demanded the immediate return of a 300-acre parcel of land that the Laikipia County Government allegedly granted to Pastor Dorcas for the construction of the facility.
During the demonstrations, a resident lamented, “As a people, we are saying with one voice that the County Government must involve us in how our land is used.”
We will not tolerate it. We will not tolerate the illegal distribution of our land; where are our leaders in Laikipia?
Residents criticized Pastor Dorcas’s initiative, arguing that it focuses on treating the problem rather than solving it.
In addition, they pointed the finger at the County Government, accusing it of lacking public participation.
Consequently, the residents pledged to stage charged demonstrations if the County Government fails to heed to their demands.
Another resident remarked, “We will demonstrate until the last minute, and we will organize an even larger one.”
ALSO READ:
- Raila’s State House presence shouldn’t be misinterpreted – Kalonzo
- EACC Summons Majority Whip Osoro Over Alleged Bribery Admission
- Family’s Anguish: 6-Year-Old’s Surgery Nightmare with Quack Doctor
Residents have also alleged that the County Government continues to misuse county funds and have asked the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to investigate.
“How can you allow one person to misuse the office?” a furious resident demanded.
“We were the ones who elected you to these positions, so where are you to defend us?”
On October 11, Pastor Dorcas attended the groundbreaking ceremony of the rehabilitation center, which she said will have a detention center.
The Second Lady indicated that patients will remain at the facility until they have recovered completely.
“A health village is a community-based rehabilitation facility. This means victims of alcoholism and substance abuse are enrolled for medication but also, trained in TVET that has among others, sporting activities and religious institutions for their spiritual wellness.,” Pastor Dorcas noted at the time.
Laikipia Erupts: Outrage Over Pastor Dorcas’ Rehab Center Sparks Protests