Nandi:Governor Stephen Sang has called on residents to support their elected leaders throughout their five-year terms, emphasizing that public humiliation and political hostility could hinder their ability to secure development resources and deliver essential services.
According to Kenya News Agency, Sang advised those dissatisfied with their leaders to express their views through the ballot at the next election rather than subjecting them to unnecessary embarrassment while in office.
Speaking at the dedication of the newly completed Mother and Baby Health Complex and the extension of Kapsabet County Referral Hospital, a project officially commissioned by President William Ruto, the governor highlighted the importance of public confidence and goodwill for elected leaders. This support is crucial for effective representation and lobbying for development projects from the national government and other partners.
Sang explained that the credibility of Governors, Members of Parliament, and Members of County Assemblies is vital when engaging with senior government officials to secure resources for their areas. He warned that publicly discrediting leaders could weaken their negotiating positions, ultimately harming the residents who depend on them for development.
Acknowledging the challenges of leadership, Sang urged residents to differentiate between holding officials accountable and subjecting them to unnecessary political humiliation. He shared his commitment to completing development projects and laying a strong foundation for his successor, expressing hope that future governors would not experience similar political challenges.
On development, Sang attributed the completion of the hospital project to continuity in leadership, stating that his second term allowed him to finish initiatives started earlier. He emphasized that development is an ongoing process, with successive governments building on the foundations laid by their predecessors.
The governor announced progress in regularizing the employment of about 1,300 workers affected by previous processes, with plans to resolve the cases of approximately 400 remaining workers soon. Additionally, recruitment for more doctors and healthcare workers is expected to be advertised shortly to support new hospital facilities and other health institutions.
Praising his Deputy Governor, Dr. Yulita Mitei, for her contributions, Sang highlighted the expected expansion of specialized services at the new hospital facilities, aiming to reduce the need for residents to seek treatment at private hospitals outside the county. He urged the hospital’s management to maintain high standards of care and announced stricter visiting hours to protect patients and ensure hygiene.
Sang expressed gratitude to the County Assembly, health department, hospital staff, church leaders, and other stakeholders for their support, describing the project’s completion as an emotional milestone for his administration. He encouraged residents to care for the new facilities, emphasizing their role in transforming healthcare delivery and improving the well-being of current and future generations.
