Village elders in Nyamira County are demanding their stipend claiming that since the promise by legislators in 2014 they have not received anything to date.
Speaking on Wednesday at the crisis meeting held at Nyamaiya Sports ground led by their Chair lady Agnes Moraa they called upon the Members of Parliament from the county to legislate a law that will allow them to get their stipend.
They said their role in the community could not be gainsaid as they are involved in the roll out of the Nyumba Kumi Initiative thus ensuring security at the village level.
They said that despite serving their society and sometimes using their resources in making calls and traveling, the village elders are still living in deplorable conditions and below the poverty line.
Agnes added that the village elders settle many cases involving different people in the community ranging from family squabbles, security, theft and even property disputes that take most of their time but they do not get anything in return.
She said some of the village elders may not be able to educate their children, provide basic needs to their families, and access health facilities.
“When we get sick we may not receive proper medical attention because we do not have enough money nor registered with the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF),” said Agnes.
Also, in the meeting was Nyamira Township MCA Robert Ongwano who assured them that he will push their agenda until they get some allowance from either the county government or the national government.