By Primerose Omoto
The appointment of former cabinet minister Ali Chirau Mwakwere as the Digo community spokesperson has elicited sharp criticism from various political leaders in Kwale County.
Mwakwere was appointed by a section of Kaya Elders, clergy, and professionals from the county in September as the sole spokesperson of the community to spearhead the community’s interest locally and nationally.
Former Msambweni member of parliament Marere wa Mwachai was named as Mwakwere’s deputy as professor Hassan Mwakimako took the secretary role.
However, the line-up has not gone down well with a section of leaders led by Kwale County Senator Issa Boy.
Boy said that the appointment is tribal and geared towards alienating the community.
Speaking in Chale Island the senator said Kwale County residents live in harmony without tribal borders.
“We do not recognize the so-called Digo spokesmanship. As residents of Kwale, we live as one community comprising Digo, Duruma, Kamba, Taita, Luo among others,” he said.
He said a few people cannot sit and decide what direction the whole County will take.
“I condemn the action by the few individuals who purported to appoint a spokesperson for the Digo community. I represent all people in the County and there can never be divisions along tribal lines,” he said.
When announcing the appointment, Kaya Diani Secretary Salim Mwalimu said the process had been delayed by a year for reasons that were beyond their control.
“We have vetted the selected individuals and we are handing over the respective positions of power to them. It is time for all Digos in Kenya to be informed that we have new leaders,” he said during the announcement at Diani Forest Lodge.
Sheikh Hassan Mwakilume said Mwakwere’s team has many duties to fulfill including bringing all members of the Digo community together to ensure unity.
“They will also Identify the challenges faced by Digos and seek relevant solutions. Maintain peaceful coexistence between the Digo community and other communities living in the region. Lobby for the Digo community to be involved in the community-building initiative,” he added.
