Banisa residents decry lack of member of National Assembly

Banisa constituents are yet to elect a member of parliament in 16 months following the death of their representative, Kullow Hassan, in March 2023. [Ibrahim Adan Ali, Standard]

Residents of Banisa Constituency in Mandera County have decried lack of representation in the National Assembly for more than a year.

The constituents are yet to elect a member of parliament in 16 months following the death of their representative, Kullow Hassan, in March 2023.

In a huge turnout of street demonstrations held during the festive season of Eid-al-Adha on Sunday, Banisa inhabitants expressed their concern by carrying placards and labels.

Issack Dahir, Banisa Ward MCA who spearheaded the protests said tertiary institutions students from humble backgrounds, who depended on CDF for bursaries have suffered and missed classes as there is no leadership in place.

"Most of our children are unable to join colleges and universities due to lack of funds as the only alternative source of fee, the bursary funds are not in place", said Dahir.

He added the area was previously hit hard by successive droughts and El Nino floods causing loss of lives and property destruction.

"Last year alone, we were adversely affected by El Nino rains, but there was no one to table our plea in parliament. We want a representative in the national assembly." He said.

Dahir finally appealed to the head of state to direct the existing IEBC selection panel to quicken the process of hiring new commissioners.

"We're requesting you to direct the current IEBC selection panel to get to work and proceed forthwith with the recruitment of the nominees for appointment of chairperson and commissioners of the IEBC"

The member of the county assembly has called on the leadership of the August House to fast-track the process as residents have been disadvantaged by the lack of representation.

Mandera Governor Mohamed Khalif echoed similar sentiments, highlighting their struggles and unmet needs.

"Due to lack of IEBC commissioners, Banisa constituency has no MP and it is very unfair. There are crucial programs to be implemented by CDF in partnership with the county government but unfortunately, we have had no MP for 16 months," he said.

Since the retirement of chairman Wafula Chebukati, there has been a standoff in recruitment of new officials, as parliament is yet to give a way forward on how the new team will be appointed.