Lokichar, June 26, 2026 (Governor’s Press Service) – Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai has called on Members of the County Assembly to rise above political differences and work together to accelerate development, saying the people of Turkana expect leaders to prioritise service delivery over partisan interests.
Addressing the County Assembly during the conclusion of the Second Edition of Bunge Mashinani at Aroo Teachers Training College in Lokichar, the Governor commended the Assembly for taking its sittings outside Lodwar, describing the initiative as an important step towards deepening public participation, strengthening accountability, and bringing legislative processes closer to the people.
Governor Lomorukai said the Bunge Mashinani programme complements the County Government’s policy of decentralising governance and public services across Turkana.
He noted that the recent decision to hold Madaraka Day celebrations in Lokitaung for the first time reflected the same commitment to rotating major public events across the county to promote inclusion and ensure every community participates in county affairs.
The Governor said devolution can only succeed through collaboration between the Executive and the County Assembly.
He further informed the House that the County Government had made significant progress towards the conferment of municipality status to Lokichar, with the draft charter prepared and public participation underway.
Once completed, he said, the process would strengthen urban governance, improve service delivery, and position Lokichar as a strategic economic and investment hub, particularly as oil development activities gather momentum.
Governor Lomorukai urged Members of the County Assembly to remain focused on the collective interests of the people, regardless of political affiliation.
“The residents of Turkana expect leadership, solutions and results. They expect us to rise above politics and work together to address the challenges facing our communities,” he said.
The Governor expressed confidence that cooperation between the Executive and the Assembly would enable the county to maximise opportunities in infrastructure, education, water, healthcare, agriculture, energy, and the emerging oil sector.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to constructive engagement with the Assembly, saying unity of purpose and a shared commitment to public service would be critical in delivering sustainable development and improving the lives of the people of Turkana.
The Governor later assented to the Turkana County Appropriation Bill, 2026, which paves way for the implementation of the 2026/2027 County budget and development programmes.
Deputy Governor Dr John Erus, County Secretary Dr Ekai Ambasada were among senior County Government officials in attendance.