The County Government of Nakuru has been advised to seek amicable solution around county houses registration wrangles.
There has been push and pull between tenants of the county houses in Flamingo, Kivumbini, and Biashara Wards and the county government over new registration process.
Tenants maintain that their interests should be heard before county takes any action.
Through their Association, they claim the county is rushing to commence registration on matters rent without fully involving them.
This even as the County Governor Susan Kihika maintained that plans of waiver on all accumulated rent arrears are on to allow tenants start paying afresh.
Speaking after attending one of the meetings with the tenants, Nakuru Senatorial aspirant 2027 Dr. Peter Mbae weighed in on the issue.
Dr. Mbae is of the opinion that the County Government of Nakuru should first listen to the grievances of tenants before acting.
According to Mbae who has also studied matters conflict resolution, Kenyans are facing harsh economic times and there is no need of burdening them with issues of rent and housing without bringing them to an understanding.
As a believer in transparency, accountability and openess, Dr Mbae says the way to go over the matter is for county government to hold a public participation meeting with tenants and leaders of affected areas, adding that the majority views shall be considered.
“As a leader who has served in various positions both in this county and national, I call on the county government to stop issuing notices or ultimatum but rather hold a meeting on the ground to hear the views of the people before acting,” he stated.
While pointing out that a rush into the issue of county houses might plunge the county into unnecessary conflicts, the Peace and Conflicts expert said he is ready to give advice to the current leadership at county level on how to address the matter amicably.
Mbae also challenged leaders to ensure they use the same energy they had while seeking votes, to help address challenges facing citizens.
“Let’s use the same energy we had when seeking votes, to help our people,” stated Mbae.
His sentiments coming barely two weeks after MCAs Fadhili Msuri(Biashara), Neto Sakwa (Kivumbini) and David Muraya Muna (Flamingo) also decried that they had been sidelined in the latest meetings held by county, hence called on the CO Housing and planning department to ensure inclusive engagement on the matter.
Author: Pristone Mambili
A trained Journalist with passion for Radio and online Writing.