The Kiambu County Government has been called upon to respect the constitution of Kenya while carrying out its mandate.
Speaking on Monday in Thika Town to a group of businessmen drawn from Thika District Business Association (TDBA), a renowned lawyer and doctor, Prof Kiama Wangai, cited occasions when the county government in its three years of existence had allegedly disregarded the constitution.
"Last year and even the year before, we saw Kiambu traders protesting against new levies that were introduced by the county government. This is simply because the county government disregarded their voices during the public participation forums,” said Wangai.
Wangai noted that the essence of the new constitution was to include the voice of the citizens in governance.
"There is no longer nothing like ruling with an iron fist here in Kenya. You have to listen to the people's wishes and do exactly that,” he added.
He also cited an incident where Madaraka market in Makongeni was set ablaze last year,claiming that it was a result of the county government failing to listen to the traders.
"I have been following the Madaraka market row closely and I can tell you that the fire was as a result of the county government blatant disregard of the constitution. When you do not listen to the people's voices, irrespective of your intentions, you will be defying the constitution,” said Wangai.