Meru town: North Imenti Member of Parliament Rahim Dawood has tabled a motion in Parliament seeking compensation for Mau Mau freedom fighters, particularly those from the Meru region, for the atrocities they suffered during the colonial period. Speaking in Meru Town, Dawood said the motion aims to compel the British Government to provide reparations, including monetary compensation and land allocations, to surviving fighters and their descendants. He noted that despite their immense sacrifices, many of the veterans and their families continue to live in poverty.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dawood emphasized the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made by the Mau Mau fighters, stating, 'We must never forget the blood and sweat shed by our forefathers. The Mau Mau roads only ended in Central Kenya. It's time we extend this recognition to Meru. The petition is now before the Parliamentary Committee, and we will not rest until justice is served to our forgotten heroes.' He expressed concern over the ongoing neglect faced by descendants of Mau Mau fighters in Meru, highlighting the lack of access to quality education and healthcare during colonial times.
The legislator also discussed infrastructure developments in his constituency, mentioning a Sh2.1 billion infrastructure fund from the World Bank, allocated through the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA), for upgrading key roads from Kambakia to Meru Town. Proposed expansions include routes such as the Shauri Yako, Meru Church (MCK)-Main Road, and bypass roads.
Dawood expressed gratitude towards the Kenya Kwanza administration, led by President William Ruto and his Deputy, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, for their efforts in upgrading the Gitoro Showground-Makutano-Meru Town-Gitimbine dual carriageway, a significant project for the region.
Nominated MP Dorothy Muthoni expressed her support for Dawood's motion, committing to rally other lawmakers in its favor during the National Assembly debate. Muthoni emphasized the need to honor the Mau Mau families for their bravery and sacrifices, acknowledging their role in securing the freedoms enjoyed today.
Muthoni also urged Kenyans to foster peace, unity, and economic growth, advising parents to supervise their children during school holidays to prevent issues like teenage pregnancies and substance abuse. She praised the Constituency-Based Equalisation initiatives for addressing longstanding development disparities and called for patience with President Ruto's administration while supporting grassroots development efforts led by Governor Mutuma M'Ethingia.