Chepkwony Kipng’eno, the Mara Ward representative in Narok County, has raised alarm over his safety after reportedly being attacked by individuals he identifies as his political adversaries.
Kipng’eno filed a police report on Wednesday, citing the attack and receiving threats on his life as reasons for his concern.
The incident occurred while Kipng’eno was attending a funeral, where he claims to have faced hostility due to his outspoken criticism of Governor Patrick Ntutu and his stance on the local elections of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party.
Kipng’eno has been advocating for Narok West MP Gabriel Tongoyo to assume leadership of the UDA in Narok County.
The confrontation escalated when Kipng’eno questioned the utilization of a 100 million shilling ward fund announced by the county government.
He pointed out the absence of visible development projects in the wards despite the substantial investment, sparking tensions among attendees.
In the aftermath of the attack, voices of condemnation emerged from the political arena.
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei and Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina criticized Governor Ntutu for what they perceive as an attempt to stifle dissenting voices.
Cherargei condemned the attack on Kipng’eno and urged Governor Ntutu to uphold freedom of expression in the county.
Expressing fear for his life, Kipng’eno addressed reporters after recording a statement at the Narok CID offices.
He recounted receiving threatening messages on his mobile phone following the attack, further exacerbating his concerns about his safety.
Governor Ntutu, on his part, distanced himself from the attack, calling for unity among citizens and leaders in the county.
He urged his followers to refrain from targeting Kipng’eno, emphasizing that he harbors no ill will towards the ward representative.
The incident involving Chepkwony Kipng’eno underscores the challenges faced by political representatives in Narok County and raises broader questions about the state of democracy and freedom of expression in the region.
As investigations into the attack proceed, attention will remain focused on efforts to ensure the safety and security of public officials.
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