Former Kathiani MP Wavinya Ndeti has defended Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu over claims of inciting youths to violence in relation to charcoal burning and transportation in her county.
Ndeti said Ngilu did not incite the youths as claimed in a video which has gone viral.
Speaking in Machakos on Friday, Ndeti said Ngilu was being crucified for standing against environmental degradation.
Ndeti said some people were unhappy with Ngilu’s charcoal and sand harvesting ban hence wanted to frustrate her through malicious accusations.
“I have watched the clip where Governor Ngilu is alleged to have incited youths to violence and I can tell you that she is being accused falsely,” Ndeti said.
Ndeti said Ngilu is not capable of inciting to violence, adding that those calling for her arrest and prosecution have their own malicious intentions.
She said Ngilu’s ban on charcoal should be lauded because it is the right step towards environmental conservation.
The former MP said they will stand with the governor, warning the government against intimidating her.
Ndeti said Ukambani region continues to suffer because of environmental degradation caused by unfriendly human activities to nature.
Ngilu has been under criticism with Kiambu politicians calling for her arrest and prosecution over alleged incitement.
The politicians led by Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu are accusing Ngilu of allegedly inciting youths to torch a lorry that was found ferrying charcoal in Kitui on Wednesday last week.
Ngilu has however refuted the claims stating that she is not aware of any vehicle that was burned.
The Kitui county government maintains that the ban on charcoal and sand harvesting will remain in force.
On Thursday, the National Cohesion and Integration Commission summoned Ngilu to appear before it on February 20 for interrogation.
A section of Kitui politicians have defended Ngilu arguing the charcoal ban is being enforced to ensure environmental conservation.
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