This archive report was first published on 27 June 2020.
On June 26, 2020, Kilifi Governor Amason Kingi's event in Magarini Sub-county turned chaotic, forcing him to temporarily discontinue the launch of an ultramodern market.
The governor had planned to launch a multi-million market in Gongoni township but suspended the launch due to overcrowding, which led to a blatant disregard of Covid-19 social distancing rules.
Hundreds of residents had turned up at the market centre, with some not wearing masks and cheering, causing panic to the county boss and his entourage.
Kingi, accompanied by area MP Michael Kingi, CEC members, and Members of County Assembly, pleaded with the residents to adhere to social distancing rules.
"If it weren't for corona, I would have filled this field, but in this Corona pandemic I don't want you to get sick which is why I urge some people to leave," he stated.
Despite observing that the area had not reported any cases of the disease, the governor urged the residents to take necessary precautions.
He maintained that he would not proceed with the meeting if people were going to put their lives at risk and lead to the spread of the virus.
Eventually, tensions settled, and the governor was able to launch the market as the crowd observed the one-metre distance rule.
The market has a capacity to hold 146 traders, making it one of the largest modern markets in Kilifi County and expected to contribute immensely to socio-economic growth.
