Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga has called for the immediate suspension of activities by a company identified as Shanta in Ramula, citing fear among residents and lack of transparency surrounding its operations.
Speaking after visiting the area, Oburu said he was alarmed by the situation on the ground, describing it as tense and unclear.
“During my visit to Ramula today, I was deeply disturbed by the atmosphere of fear and the lack of transparency surrounding the presence of Shanta, a company unknown to me and unaccountable to this community,” he said.
The senator questioned the company’s legitimacy and accused authorities of failing to provide adequate information to the public, warning that the use of security forces had worsened tensions.
“Leadership is a sacred trust, and that trust is violated when force replaces clarity. I demand that Shanta Company suspend all operations immediately until full transparency is established,” he added.
Oburu also called for the release of individuals arrested during the standoff and urged the government to withdraw General Service Unit (GSU) officers and police from the area.
“Our people deserve a peace rooted in dignity and mutual respect, not one enforced by the presence of rifles and intimidation,” he said.
The developments come amid growing concern among local leaders and residents over the company’s activities, with questions emerging over its mandate and engagement with the community.
Efforts to get a response from government officials and representatives of the company were not immediately successful.
