Tension is escalating in Kapkoi Sublocation, Kwanza Sub-County, after residents raised concerns over alleged irregularities in the appointment of a new assistant chief.
Locals claim that a candidate who had already been duly selected was unfairly sidelined in a process now marred by controversy.
The dispute traces back to 2024 when a vacancy for the assistant chief position was officially declared and a recruitment process carried out.
According to a letter dated January 15, 2025, Rift Valley Regional Commissioner Dr. Abdi M. Hassan authorized the Trans-Nzoia County Commissioner to proceed with appointments after verifying all academic and professional credentials.
Official communication from the Office of the President under the Ministry of Interior and National Administration indicated that Beatrice Lukorito, a qualified local candidate, had been identified and was expected to assume the role.
However, in a move that has since sparked outrage, the position was re-advertised in 2025 under unclear circumstances, triggering a fresh recruitment process that has left residents questioning the integrity of the exercise.
Residents are now demanding answers as to why the initial recruitment was nullified and how a different individual—reportedly not a resident of Kapkoi—was ultimately appointed.
Wabuge Jaffary, a local resident, criticized the decision, stating that it undermined a process that had already been concluded.
“The process had already been finalized and names forwarded for appointment. It is shocking that a different person, who is not even from this area, was later picked. We want justice,” he said.
Another resident, Moses Wafula, emphasized that residency is a fundamental requirement for administrative roles such as assistant chief.
“It is clearly stated that an applicant must be a resident. A non-resident has been picked over a qualified local candidate. This is not acceptable,” he said.
Women and youth leaders have also joined the chorus of discontent, calling for transparency, accountability, and fairness in public service appointments.
Emily, speaking on behalf of women in the area, said the community feels sidelined despite having capable local candidates.
Youth leader Mona Maloba urged authorities to uphold integrity, warning that such decisions risk eroding trust among young people.
Residents now warn that failure to address the issue could undermine public confidence in government recruitment processes and fuel further discontent at the grassroots level.
