Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wesley Rotich has sought to clear his name following criticism from residents over the national government’s decision to move the 2026 Mashujaa Day celebrations from Kamariny Stadium to neighbouring Uasin Gishu County.
The national celebrations, originally scheduled to be held at Kamariny Stadium in Elgeyo Marakwet, were relocated by President William Ruto, a move that has sparked mixed reactions among residents and local leaders.
Speaking to youth at Lillies in Iten town on Monday, July 20, 2026, Governor Rotich explained that the President made the decision in order to hold the event at a more central location that could accommodate and unite residents from several neighbouring counties.
“I ask the residents to accept the President’s decision. Mashujaa Day is just for one day, but there are many development projects that the President is implementing in our county that will last for years and years,” Rotich said.
The governor acknowledged that residents had been eager to host the national event and had already begun preparations to welcome guests from across the country. However, he urged them not to direct their frustration at local leaders, saying they had done everything within their power to retain the celebrations in the county.
Rotich also assured residents that the construction of the historic Kamariny Stadium would continue despite the relocation of the Mashujaa Day celebrations.
He maintained that the President’s intention was to use the national holiday as an opportunity to bring together Kenyans from neighbouring counties and promote unity.
The relocation has renewed concerns among some residents who argue that Elgeyo Marakwet has long been overlooked in the allocation of major national development projects.
