A section of political leaders from western Kenya have met in Nairobi to chart the way forward for the region.
The leaders said they have organised another meeting in Kakamega which will bring together grassroot leaders from Vihiga, Kakamega, Busia, Bungoma and Trans Nzoia counties.
They said leaders from the region holding senior positions in government have failed to fight for the interests of Western.
Trans Nzoia governor George Natembeya said there is a gap in the leadership in western Kenya.
“There are those in leadership positions in government but we feel they are not concerned about the welfare of the community in Western,” Natembeya said.
“It is for this reason that we have come forward to start this dialogue.”
UDA Secretary General Cleophas Malala stressed that leaders in Western will converge in Kakamega on Monday for the discussions.
“We want to discuss our way forward as a community. We want to talk about how we will move and who do we court as friends,” Malala added.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna said politicians from western would not have organised the meeting “if there was leadership in the country.”
“That realisation is what brings all these people together. Many more people will join us and offer solutions. We are not interested in attacking anyone, we just want to consult,” added Sifuna, who is also the ODM secretary general.
The country has witnessed deadly protests and violence in recent weeks arising from unemployment, poverty and inequality.
