A quiet storm is building in Kenya’s Mt. Elgon region, where tradition, politics, and security concerns have collided in a dispute surrounding the uprooting of a centuries-old fig tree, a tree believed by local elders to hold spiritual and cultural significance for the Sabaot community.
At the center of the brewing controversy is Mos Ndiema, a resident of Mt. Elgon, who was summoned by Kenya’s Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Bungoma. Ndiema was questioned over his alleged involvement in planning to incite unrest through traditional gatherings and support for elders who seek to uproot the ancient tree located in Toroso village.
“I was called to record a statement, but I rejected the accusations,” said Ndiema in an exclusive interview.
“This has nothing to do with chaos or politics. The meetings I held with elders were solely focused on preserving our culture.” He said.
Ndiema has however called on Mt Elgon Constituency Member of Parliament(MP) Fred Kapondi to stop politicizing the community’s traditions that was even prophesied two hundred years back when he was not even born.
Ndiema who is also eying to unseat the area MP in 2027 alludes that ,Mr. Kapondi is in an effort to stop each and every person from practicing their rights.
“Ni ukweli pia niko na interest ya kisiasa lakini haimaanishi mikutano ambayo tumekuwa tukifanya ni ya kuleta vurugu mlimani.”Ndiema reiterated.
“Kwa mfano shughuli ambayo ilikuwa tufanye leo (Friday)Kapondi anasema kuwa tuking’oa mkuyu yeye atakuwa ameondolewa mamlakani.”
Ndiema has urged the Government to give the Sabaot community an opportunity to practice their traditional rights, stating that uprooting the ancient tree will reclaim the region.
By Wanji Sostine
