Kenyans have been asked to embrace peace and support the handshake between President Uhuru Kenyatta and NASA leader Raila Odinga to promote peace and foster development in the country.
Leaders from Kisumu said the country has experienced steady economic growth since the two leaders embraced each other adding that a lot more shall be achieved if the peace initiatives are enhanced.
Kisumu County Senator Fred Outa, Seme Member of Parliament (MP) Dr. James Nyikal and Nyakach Member of Parliament (MP) Aduma Owuor urged Kenyans to rally behind the handshake to ensure stability in the country.
Kisumu County Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o said any Kenyans opposed to the handshake was an enemy of the country.
“We must all support President Uhuru Kenyatta and NASA leader Raila Odinga to ensure that the country is unified for meaningful development to take place,” he said.
Speaking during Madaraka Day Celebrations at Jomo Kenyatta Sports Grounds in Kisumu, the governor thanked the president for showing commitment on unifying the country urging leaders across the country to support the initiative.
Devolution, he said will work effectively if peace prevails and when there is a collaboration between the national and county governments.
The County government, he said will partner with the national government to crack down on illicit brews and counterfeit alcoholic drinks in the area.
A village Council Bill, he said has been prepared and will be tabled before the county assembly for scrutiny and approval to pave way for the appointment of village councils.
Through the bill, the village councils have been charged with overseeing public health, environment, road maintenance among other roles.“We are warning those involved in illicit brews that the village councils are coming,” he said.
On her part, Kisumu County Commissioner Pauline Dola said the multi-agency approach to tame illicit brews was on course.
The administrator added that security officers have been instructed to crack down on gambling machines believed to be hideouts for criminals.
The culture of gambling, she said was negatively affecting families since school children and even parents waste a fortune hoping to reap big.
Police, he added have intensified patrols within Kisumu to beef up security and create an enabling environment for business to grow.