Patani People Protest Mutu's Continued Stay as Reps Member, East-West Road Grinds to Halt

By Admin 

Commercial and social activities were ground to a half on Thursday April 30, 2026, as civil protesters took to the Patani stretch of the strategic East-West road , in peaceful procession, to drum up their advocacy for inclusiveness of the Patani people and an end to the Seven term stay of Hon Nicholas Mutu as Bomadi/Patani Federal Constituency Representative.

The orderly and peaceful protest which witnessed a large turnout of citizens of Patani advocating for a change in legislative leadership of their federal Constituency, resulted in an over four hours gridlock on the East-West road , with attendant ripple effect of disruption in commercial and economic activities.

Stakeholders, community leaders and concerned citizens from Patani who participated in the peaceful protest, noted that their agitation is not driven by hostility, but by a legitimate expectation, that democracy must provide room for participation, rotation among the federating units , as well as accountability .

At the heart of the protest is a clear and consistent message : the demand for fairness, equity, and democratic inclusion.

The protesters , carrying different placards and chanting solidarity songs, were calling for an opportunity for other qualified individuals, particularly from Patani local government area , to represent the Bomadi/Patani Federal Constituency, in the 2027 general elections.

A community stakeholder in Patani who spoke to newsmen on condition of anonymity , was emphatic that "democracy cannot thrive where representation is perceived as permanent or exclusive. After nearly three decades of continuous occupation of a single office by one individual, it is both reasonable and necessary , to allow space for new leadership with fresh ideas, to emerge".

Concerns were also raised over Hon Mutu's lack of legislative impact , limited evidence constituency focused bills , motions or federal projects that directly benefit the people of the constituency over the 27 years on the saddle.

The protesters therefore appealed to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori , to take cognizance of their marginalization and steer the impending crisis towards upholding democratic neutrality , while urging political parties in the area to ensure open, transparent and competitive primaries , as well as the security agencies to continue to support peaceful civic expression while maintaining public order.

Observers say that the peaceful protest serve as a critical reminder that the voice of the people remains central to democratic governance , and that ignoring such expressions risks deepening discontent and undermining confidence in democratic institutions.