Angered residents of Elgeyo Marakwet are threatening to boycott the upcoming October 20, 2026, Mashujaa Day celebrations following the government’s abrupt decision to move the national event to Eldoret City.

In May 2026, Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen announced that the national fete would be hosted at the historic Kamariny Stadium in Iten, marking a massive developmental milestone for the county.

President William Ruto hosted leaders from Uasin Gishu, Nandi, and Elgeyo Marakwet and announced a joint co-hosting format at Eldoret’s Kipchoge Keino Stadium.

Delays in construction at Kamariny Stadium meant the venue would not be ready to host a massive national crowd by October.

Leading local voices, including Harun Yego, Enock Mutai, Leonard Chelimo, Kevin Kibet, and Ivy Chepchumba, accuse regional politicians of intentionally misleading the President to favor the newly elevated Eldoret City.

Residents demand that the executive reverse its decision and hold the event at Kamariny Stadium as planned, warning that local mobilization will be completely withdrawn if the venue remains shifted.

CS Murkomen has clarified that while the fete has shifted to Kipchoge Keino Stadium to safeguard national timelines, the state’s financial and development commitment to finishing Kamariny Stadium remains fully intact.