The Terik people on Tuesday proposed the change of the name of Nandi county arguing that it was unfair to have the county named after one dominant community.
Community that wants county name changed
Community argues foul play in decision of the name
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The small community that resides in Nandi county, claimed that the decision to have named the county after the Nandi ethnic group promoted marginalisation and gave recognition more to the group than other communities.
Prof Maritim Songok, who supports the move, stated that the matter must be addressed by both Parliament and Senate.
“The Terik fought to regain their language and culture and Unesco even recognised us. However, the 2010 Constitution dealt us a serious blow by allowing the use of Nandi as the name of the county,” remarked Songok.
Songok’s view was echoed by Vihiga Governor Wilber Ottichilo during the Terik Cultural Day at Kapchemugung Primary School in Vihiga County.
The governor pointed out that the naming of counties after specific communities should be abolished.
Counties whose names have to be changed
According to the professor who is a scientist at Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), other counties that should have their names changed are: Embu, Meru, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Samburu, Tharaka-Nithi, Kisii, Taita-Taveta, Turkana and West Pokot.
In May 2018, Ameru Professionals Association (AMPA) proposed the change of Tharaka Nithi to Meru South.
The association's spokesperson, Erastus Njoka stated that the change would promote unity among the Meru people.
Njoka who is the Vice-chancellor of Chuka university explained the name will help the residents of both Meru and Tharaka Nithi pressure for projects as a block.
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