Mt. Elgon, Kenya. The much-anticipated ceremony scheduled for this Friday, April 18th, to cut down the historic Mokoyweet tree in Toroso, Cheptais District, has sparked a wave of mixed reactions among local leaders and residents.
The planned event took an unexpected turn following strong objections from the Member of Parliament for Mt. Elgon Constituency, Hon. Fred Kapondi. The MP asserted that the sacred Mokoyweet tree belongs to the Sabiny prophet Kuko Sausan. In a dramatic twist, the prophet appeared at the site on Tuesday, claiming that the tree is a sacred symbol tied to the Kapchaai clan and that only he holds the spiritual authority to decide its fate. According to Kuko Sausan, the tree holds deep ancestral significance for the Kapsongoywo lineage.
Following these developments, the meeting that was to be officiated by the Bungoma County Commissioner was abruptly called off. The cancellation came after the Cabinet Secretary for Interior, Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen (via a phone directive communicated through Hon. Kapondi), instructed the County Commissioner not to proceed with the ceremony.
Elders who had prepared to lead the cultural event have expressed disappointment and sent a formal complaint to the county authorities. Preparations had been completed, including the readiness of ceremonial items such as cows for sacrifice and other traditional materials.
Discussions are currently ongoing to determine the way forward, as both the community and cultural custodians seek clarity on the matter
