Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu has warned politicians against politicizing the county’s push for mineral exploration.
Ngilu claims that some politicians are feeding locals with lies in regards to the plan to start the exploration of minerals in the county.
Speaking to Thitani residents in Mwingi West on Sunday, Ngilu said that the county has the interests of the people at heart and will not hurt or infringe on their rights in its quest for to explore minerals.
The governor said that some politicians want to derail the country’s development agenda through petty politics.
“We must stop these petty issues and support development agenda,” Ngilu said.
The governor said that the county’s plan to explore minerals is unstoppable.
She observed that proper consultations have been done, adding, that there is no reason for fear among locals sitting on rich mineral land.
“We have put in place proper measures to ensure everyone especially those sitting on land with minerals benefit,” she said.
Earlier, Governor Ngilu and Kitui woman rep Irene Kasalu clashed at Thitani secondary school in Mwingi West over the county’ push for minerals.
Kasalu had accused Ngilu of failing to consult local leaders and residents on her mineral plans.
Several politicians among the Mwingi central MP Gideon Mulyungi are opposing Ngilu’s plan on grounds that she is not consulting the people.
Kitui has rich mineral resources that the county government in partnership with the national government are seeking to explore for the benefit of the residents.