Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua has backed Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu’s charcoal and sand harvesting ban terming it as 'the right direction' towards environmental conservation.
Speaking during an interview on radio Jambo on Wednesday morning , Mutua told off critics questioning Ngilu’s move, saying they are ‘enemies’ of environmental conservation.
“I personally support Kitui government's move to ban charcoal and sand harvesting and I see Machakos going the same direction soon," Governor Mutua said.
According to Mutua, environmental degradation is one of the critical issues facing Ukambani adding that the region is poor and dry because of tree felling and sand harvesting that affect rain cycles.
“We cannot continue to tolerate acts that pose danger to our environment and people,” he said.
He, however, noted that the ban must be conducted with strict adherence to the constitution adding that violence and incitement should never be used in enforcing polices that are meant to safeguard the interests of Kenyans.
“I urge my sister Charity to ensure that the law is followed and no one is hurt as she implements the charcoal ban,” he said.
Governor Ngilu has been under criticism in the past week over allegations that she incited youth to torch down a lorry ferrying charcoal in Kanyororo, Kitui on Wednesday last week.
A section of Kiambu politicians led by deputy governor James Nyoro alleged that Ngilu instructed her aides to intercept the lorry and arrest the driver before it was set a blaze.
Governor Ngilu denied the allegations adding that she was not aware of any vehicle that was torched down as it has been reported in the media.
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