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Kericho residents stage protests over poor roads, give governor 1-month ultimatum
18th August, 2026 02:40 PM
Residents of Kejiriet in Soin Ward, Sigowet-Soin Constituency, Kericho County, have staged protests over the poor state of roads in the area, accusing local leaders of neglecting their concerns.
The residents on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, took to the streets armed with jembes, pangas and other tools, saying they had been forced to take matters into their own hands after years of what they described as inaction by their leaders.
They attempted to repair sections of the road themselves, saying the poor condition of the route has made movement difficult, particularly during the rainy season.
Residents said the road becomes impassable whenever it rains, affecting motorists, businesses and other activities in the area.
“When it rains, the road becomes impassable. We leave our vehicles behind and walk because we cannot use the road,” resident Selina Tembur said.
Another resident, John Langat, said residents have been struggling with nearly two roads that have become difficult to use.
“We have nearly two roads that are impassable,” Langat said.
One-month ultimatum
The protesters criticised the leadership of Kericho Governor Erick Mutai, Soin Member of Parliament Justice Kipsang Kemei and Soin Ward Member of County Assembly Namaan Rob, accusing them of failing to deliver development projects in the area.
The residents said the poor roads have affected their daily lives, making it difficult to access essential services and transport goods and produce.
They have now issued the leaders with a one-month ultimatum to ensure rehabilitation works begin on the affected road.
The residents warned that they would return to the streets if no action was taken within the one-month period.
They also threatened to punish the leaders through the ballot in the 2027 General Election, saying their continued neglect of the roads would influence how they vote.
The protests highlight growing frustration among residents who say poor road infrastructure continues to affect their livelihoods, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
The residents are now calling on the county and national governments to intervene and address the condition of the roads before the situation worsens.
Additionally, they said they would continue demanding action until the road is repaired and made accessible to motorists and pedestrians throughout the year.
