Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya was on Monday, May 12, teargassed while leading a protest against the leasing ofNzoia Sugar Company.
In a statement, Natembeya said the demonstration which drew hundreds of locals was abruptly disrupted by police officers who used tear gas to disperse the crowd.
"The journey to Nzoia Sugar Company to find the truth was disrupted by police officers who threw tear gas canisters at us and the protestors who had accompanied us to the factory," he said.
Natembeya, who has been a vocal critic of plans to lease the state-owned sugar mill, argued that it would have devastating consequences to the region's economy.
"We must get to the bottom of this for the sake of our people. The Nzoia Sugar Company is a critical economic pillar for Western Kenya, supporting over 45,000 farmers and providing livelihoods for millions directly and indirectly.
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"I perceive the privatization or leasing of this institution as a menace to the region's economy, particularly given its pivotal role in supporting sugarcane farmers and local communities. The smell of tear gas is necessary in the quest for freedom," he declared.
The demonstration came days after agriculture cabinet secretary Mutahi Kagwe announced that the ministry has finalized the leasing of four state-owned sugar factories.
Speaking on Friday, May 9, the CS said the movies aimed at stabilizing the sugar sector that has been marred by debt and poor management among other challenges.
"No public land has been sold or transferred. The assets remain the property of the national government. Only operations are being released," he said.
The four factories are Nzoia Sugar Company, Chemelil Sugar Company, Sony Sugar Company and Muhoroni Sugar Company.
Notably, Nzoia Sugar Company has been leased to West Kenya Sugar Company.
