Jubilee supporters in Kathwana, Tharaka Nithi County on Wednesday took to the streets protesting against a statement issued by Deputy President William Ruto during a tour of the region a week ago.
The angry residents went up in arms after Ruto seemingly suggested that the government acknowledged Chuka town as the county's headquarters instead of Kathwana, when he attended a fundraiser at Kaare Secondary School.
Carrying placards with CORD leader Raila Odinga's image, the residents complained that the Jubilee government had abandoned the region, vowing to support Odinga in the 2017 election.
"We are assuring Raila Odinga that Tharaka will be his stronghold in 2017 and he is welcome any day," one of the protesters stated.
They barricaded Ishiara-Tuyai-Mitunguu road asking DP Ruto to clarify his statement which has divided area leaders into two factions - one supporting Chuka and the other backing Kathwana as the county headquarters.
“We want President Uhuru Kenyatta to visit Tharaka as he promised. He should come with the Deputy President and denounce the remarks he issued during his visit,” demanded Patrick Nyaga, another protester.
One faction led by area Governor Samuel Ragwa and other top leaders maintained that Ruto's statement was a clear indication that Chuka was the most recognised town in the County.
On the other hand, another group demanded that all facilities established in Chuka town be moved to Kathwana, since it was the town acknowledged in the County Governments (Amendment) Act signed by President Kenyatta.
