Mike Sonko the former Nairobi governor, has told the governors to stop claims that they haven’t received funds from the National government for flood mitigation. He spoke on Sunday when he attended a fundraising event at wote AIC Church in Makueni county
“I’m no longer a governor, but I understand that there is a kitty provided to the County government for emergency and disaster management, which governors should use to save our people,” he said.
Sonko said that, county governor should stop blaming the National government and instead, make good use of the special kitty that are provided.Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said County governments should not expect any funds from the National government to assist in helping those that are effects by floods, and asked counties to use their emergency kitty.
Governors have denied receiving El Nino funds from the state as Deputy President Gachagua maintains Sh2.4 billion has been distributed to counties. On the high cost of living, Sonko said the issue is a global one following the ongoing war between Israel and Palestine, and he urged politicians to stop blaming the government for not responding on the issue of floods and instead use what they have to deliver to their people.
The former governor condoled with the families that lose their loved ones who were drowned at Muuoni River in Emali, Makueni county. The number of people who have died due to floods is at 20s after other four died in other parts of the county.16 year old boy was found death during a mudslide ,54year man was drowned in makindu in mukaa and in makueni a postor was drowned by floods which is so painful to lose our loved ones.Sonko warned the drivers to be careful saying a driver was spotted at the killer River Enziu in Kitui, trying to cross a flooded area .
“Floods are affecting our people here in Makueni, drivers should stop gambling with people’s lives.”sonko added.
On Sunday, Makueni Woman Reps office through Ngaaf coordinator Benjamin Wambua, camped at Muuoni River where the eight were drowned and told the residents to keep off flooded rivers during these rainy season so that they can be save and minimizes the chances of death rate .
“We are appealing to people to avoid flooded rivers and muddy areas prone to mudslides and landslides to avoid deaths,” Benjamin said.
By Janet Namalwa