Naming of Chuka Town streets draws mixed reactions

The naming of streets in Chuka Town, Tharaka Nithi County by area MP Joseph Njeru has drawn mixed reactions from residents, with many terming it as a move by area politicians to make their mark in the county’s political scene, while others hailed the county government for modernising the town.

A section of the residents welcomed the move saying it is a way of appreciating the county’s leadership for the good work they have done to the people of Chuka in matters development, adding that the names would help visitors find their way around the town.

“This is a good move, it will remind the future generation of the good work that the current leaders did for the their county by initiating tarmac roads and cleaning up of streets,” said Ndionisia Karimi, a businesswoman in Chuka Town.

However, some residents are opposed to the move saying those whose names should be used are leaders who were there before and not the current ones.

They said the MP should have consulted the residents and the council of elders who are the custodians of the town to come up with appropriate names.

The MP on his part defended the project saying the naming of the streets does not hinder development since it’s only a motivation to the named persons for the good work they have done.

Njeru added that for a long time past leaders have used the roads of Chuka to woo voters but did not deliver, but those named after the tarmacked streets have played a big part in making it happen.

The leaders whose names have been used on the streets are Senator Kithure Kindiki, Muthomi Njuki and Professor Njoka.