Veteran Coast politician and former long-serving minister Chirau Ali Mwakwere has demanded respect from Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani following a dispute over the ongoing construction of the Sh3 billion Kwale-Kinango road project.

Mwakwere claimed Achani has been disrespectful to him despite his age and vast experience in politics, claims she denied.

The disagreement arose after a letter issued by the Changoma Family, in which Mwakwere is a signatory, called for the family’s inclusion in discussions regarding the project.

According to the letter, the road construction is affecting the sacred Kaya Kwale and some parts of the land which the Changoma Family claims ownership and custodianship.

However, they allege that the government failed to involve them in the planning process yet they are key stakeholders.

Later, Achani and her supporters criticized Mwakwere, allegedly calling him an obstacle to development who does not have the best interests of the people of Kwale at heart. In a press statement, Achani said it is ironic that the road has existed for a long time and has been used by many, yet no one ever laid claim to it until the government decided to tarmac it.