Security agencies in Cherangany sub county in Trans Nzoia County have expressed their satisfaction in the manner interfaith leaders have put in place measures to curb the spread of the Coronavirus. Speaking during a function that brought together interfaith leaders drawn from the across the County, security agencies and human rights activists, Trans Nzoia East Deputy County commissioner Abed Mwalwa praised interfaith leaders for encouraging adherents to observe the Health Ministry directives.
The measures put in place range from checking body temperature, provision of water for handwashing purposes at places of worship, encouraging the wearing of masks as well as observing social distancing in worship premises. Mwalwa, however, urged members of the different denominations in the sub county to work together with security teams to enforce the guidelines, and praised the good rapport between the government and denominations.
The interfaith leaders led by their chairperson Martin Mafumbo affirmed that they’ll keep spreading messages on the importance of observing Covid-19 infection prevention directives at places like boda boda stages, market places among others. He faulted politicians for hastening the spread of the virus, with most of them organizing political rallies at gatherings and social places, without keeping in mind the risk posed. He added that religious leaders have opted to tell the politicians head on when they disregard rules.
On their part, human rights activists led by Kepha Were and the chairperson for the Trans Nzoia Workers Union Samuel Kiboi appealed to the County government and other leaders to provide masks for County residents, pointing out that many residents can’t afford to buy masks. They also appealed to police officers to be lenient with locals who’ll be found breaching the Covid-19 protocols, and instead provide civic education, “You can’t arrest a local and take him to Court and fine him more than Kshs 15,000 yet the person doesn’t even have 10 bob,” said Kiboi.
