Uasin Gishu County Removes Newly Erected Statues After Public Uproar
Uasin Gishu County is currently at the center of a public outcry after several newly erected statues were removed following widespread criticism from residents. The statues, part of a larger beautification project in anticipation of Eldoret town’s elevation to city status, have been deemed by many as poorly executed and unrepresentative of the town’s rich heritage.
The Uproar and Public Backlash
The controversy began when the county unveiled several thematic monuments strategically placed around Eldoret’s Central Business District (CBD). These monuments, intended to celebrate the town’s imminent city status, quickly became a topic of heated discussion, particularly on social media. Many residents expressed their disappointment, questioning the craftsmanship and relevance of the statues.
One statue, in particular, drew significant attention. Erected at the Fims junction, this monument was intended to depict an athlete, a fitting tribute given Eldoret’s reputation as the home of world-class runners. However, the statue’s resemblance to any known athlete was so vague that it became a source of ridicule. Residents, who expected a monument that would honor the town’s legendary athletes, instead found themselves unable to identify the figure represented.
Another statue, located at the Telecom roundabout, depicted a maize cob—an homage to the region’s agricultural significance. However, this monument was criticized for its poor design, with many noting that the maize cob appeared discolored and unappealing. The outcry led to its removal and replacement with a more visually accurate representation.
Government Reaction and Monument Removal
The public dissatisfaction did not go unnoticed by local authorities. Sources indicate that a top government official, upon witnessing the poorly received monuments, ordered their immediate removal or replacement. The firms responsible for the construction of these monuments have since been on-site, working to remove them ahead of a significant event where President William Ruto is expected to hand over the city charter to Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii.
Residents, led by community voices such as Kipkorir Birgen, have been vocal in their disapproval. Birgen, in an online post, referred to the statues as “monuments of shame,” arguing that the county could have done much better in selecting and designing monuments that truly reflect the town’s new city status. He emphasized that these monuments do not align with the pride and identity that the residents of Eldoret associate with their town.
The Way Forward
As Eldoret prepares to embrace its new status as a city, the removal of these statues serves as a reminder of the importance of public consultation and quality in public art and projects. The expectation now is that any future monuments or public works will be more reflective of the town’s rich history, culture, and achievements.
The county administration and the Eldoret Municipal Board have yet to issue an official statement regarding the public backlash or the steps they will take to ensure that future projects meet the community’s expectations. As it stands, the residents of Eldoret continue to voice their opinions, hoping that the next set of monuments will truly honor their city’s status and heritage.
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