Vihiga leaders condemn heckling during Ruto's visit at market site

A section of Vihiga leaders have condemned the chaotic scenes that unfolded during President William Ruto’s recent visit to the county for the groundbreaking of the Sh365 million Luanda Market.

The event, meant to mark a milestone in western Kenya’s development, was marred by jeering, with angry traders expressing discontent over recent market demolitions.

Vihiga Governor Wilber Ottichilo bore the brunt of the crowd’s anger, as he was unable to deliver his speech due to boos and interruptions.

Amid the chaos, the governor cut his address short and handed the microphone back to President Ruto.

Other leaders, including Luanda MP Oyugi Dick Maungu and Vihiga Woman Representative Beatrice Adagala, also faced resistance from sections of the crowd but managed to complete their remarks.

The jeering was linked to the demolition of stalls at the old Luanda Market earlier in the week, which displaced more than 200 traders to make way for the new market.

Many traders accused local leaders and the government of negligence, citing a lack of consultation and support during the transition.

Speaking at the annual County Prayer Breakfast at Mbale Praise Centre, Ottichilo defended himself against allegations of forceful evictions, attributing the heckling to political sabotage.

“When the President visits, I am appointed to read the unified memorandum during political rallies. This time, however, there were plans to heckle me, even after we held a pre-planning meeting with elected and unelected leaders,” said Ottichilo.

He emphasised the need for political tolerance and collaboration among leaders, urging them to work together for better service delivery.

The governor also highlighted his administration’s achievements and ongoing partnerships aimed at improving the welfare of Vihiga residents.

Other leaders present during the groundbreaking were Emuhaya MP Omboko Milemba and Vihiga County Assembly Speaker Christopher Omulele.

President Ruto attempted to calm the crowd by announcing a Sh3 million compensation package for the displaced traders.

He also directed the contractor to complete the market project by December 2025. Despite this, scepticism remains, with many traders and leaders referencing the stalled Esibuye Market project, which began in early 2024 and remains incomplete.

Billy Nyonje, chairperson of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vihiga Chapter, warned against repeating past mistakes, stating, “Without proper consultation and a clear strategy, this project risks going down the same path.”

Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi condemned the heckling, calling it a disgrace to the high office of the President.