Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Daily Nation
Published on 2024-02-15 12:34:58
The political climate in Kakamega County in Western Kenya is fraught with tension and division that is adversely impacting service delivery and governance. The rift between Ward Representatives, Members of Parliament, and the Kakamega County Governor, Fernandes Barasa, has escalated due to early campaigning for the 2027 elections and personal interests in the sugar industry within the county. As a result, the county has become a battleground for a fierce political scramble as current elected leaders vie for bigger seats and new entrants seek to unseat those in power.
Mumias East MP Peter Salasya and Chekalini ward MCA Titus Kwoma are at the forefront of the opposition against Governor Barasa, publicly mocking him for being overly focused on launching development projects across the county. The animosity between Salasya and the Governor has spilled over into public confrontations, with the MP reportedly organizing demonstrators to block Barasa from attending a public participation rally at Lusheya. Furthermore, Salasya was allegedly roughed up by Barasa’s supporters during a church function for criticizing the governor’s involvement in the revival process of Mumias Sugar Company, accusing him of being funded by rival West Kenya Sugar Millers.
The tension has also affected the relationship between ward representatives and members of parliament, with reports of physical attacks and undermining. In Matungu, allies of MP Peter Nabulindo reportedly attacked Khalaba ward MCA Boniface Osanga during a public rally convened by Governor Barasa. As a result, four MCAs from Matungu have condemned the political intolerance and called for a meeting of all elected leaders in Kakamega to address their differences.
The situation is further complicated by incumbents and aspirants vying for higher political positions. Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale and woman representative Elsie Muhanda are competing to unseat Governor Barasa in the 2027 elections. Both have declared their interest in the gubernatorial position, along with UDA Secretary General Cleophas Malala, who previously contested and lost in the 2022 race against Barasa. The political landscape has also seen alliances form, with Khalwale and former governor Wycliffe Oparanya setting aside their political differences to work together for the development of Kakamega County.
Despite the ongoing political clashes, Governor Barasa has criticized elected leaders for prioritizing premature campaigns over their duties, accusing them of engaging in petty and retrogressive politics. He has challenged them to showcase their ongoing projects and plans instead of disrupting the work of other elected leaders.
The political unrest in Kakamega County is a significant concern, as it has the potential to hinder development and effective governance. The need for political tolerance and constructive engagement has been underscored by incidents of violence and public confrontations. Finding common ground and fostering cooperation among elected leaders is crucial for the prosperity and well-being of the county and its residents.
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