Mumias residents ‘force’ governor Barasa, Wajackoyah to address them

Kakamega governor Fernandes Barasa addressing residents of Mumias. Photo/Courtesy

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By Jabali Media

Normal business operations came to a near standstill in Mumias town on Wednesday, when residents stopped Kakamega governor Fernandes Barasa from proceeding to his office, demanding that he first gives an address and inspect their businesses.

Accompanied by Roots Party leader George Wajackoyah, he took the challenge and ended up touring several locations, including Jua Kali, Taxi, Amusiola-Bunge la Mwananchi, Mjini, and the Economic Stimulus Market where he concluded his visit with a final address.

“ODM is the party here in Kakamega, and as the chairman, I will ensure that we have an office in every Sub-County and every Ward,” said governor Barasa, who doubles up as ODM chairman in Kakamega county.

He warned Mumias residents against falling victim to politicians he said are out to use and dumb them.

“I want to tell you to be wary of politicians seeking to exploit you for political expediency. If someone wants to be a leader in Mumias West, let him or her come and tell you development plans that are in store for you if elected, not ferrying people to funerals so as to heckle the governor,” he stated.

“I want us to walk together,” he added.

On his part, the Roots Party leader declared that he is Kenya’s 6th president.

“I am the next President of Kenya,” said Wajackoyah.

He finished third during the 2022 presidential race, behind President William Ruto and Azimio leader, Raila Odinga.

“Ruto is my opponent. Raila Odinga is gone (He is contesting for the African Union Commission chairmanship). What else do you want? he paused.

“Wajackoyah,” residents said in unison.

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Governor Barasa inspected ongoing projects including the upgrade of Mjini – Masanga road to bitumen standards, through a collaboration with the World Bank under the newly launched Kenya Informal Settlements Improvement Project (KISIP) Phase II program.

The program is enhancing infrastructure within Mumias and Kakamega municipalities.

The Governor also announced that his administration has allocated over Sh150 million in the current Financial Year, to upgrade infrastructure projects in the town, including drainage systems, road repairs, street lighting, and market centres.