Former Kibwezi MP Kalembe Ndile has defended Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu over ban on charcoal burning and sand harvesting.
Ndile says that Ngilu's ban should not be seen as a way of locking business for the locals and neighbouring communities.
Speaking to journalists in Machakos Town on Sunday, Ndile hit out at those criticizing Ngilu for enforcing the ban, terming them 'enemies' of environmental conservation.
The former lawmaker said that Kitui and the large Ukambani region has suffered most when it comes to the effects environmental degradation.
"I support Governor Ngilu's firm enforcement of the law on charcoal burning and sand harvesting and she should be left to push for environment conservation," he said.
Ngilu said that it is time leaders and Kenyans stood firm and protect the environment.
He said that the country risks losing out if proper measures are not taken to safeguard the environment.
Ndile cautioned politicians against politicizing positive measures being taken to conserve the environment.
The former MP, however, urged governor Ngilu to ensure that the enforcement of the charcoal and sand ban is done within the confines of the law.
Governor Ngilu has been under crticism with a section of Kiambu politicians accusing her of allegedly inciting youth to torch lorries found ferrying charcoal in the county.
On Saturday, a section of Kiambu politicians led by Kiambu deputy governor James Nyoro demanded for Ngilu's arrest.
Nyoro alleged that Ngilu incited youths to torch a lorry in Kanyororo, Kitui that was allegedly ferrying charcoal on Wednesday night.
According to Nyoro, the lorry belonged to a Limuru resident and was ferrying charcoal from Tana River county and not Kitui.
Ngilu has since denied inciting youth to torch vehicles, saying that the ban on charcoal burning and sand harvesting will be enforced to the later.