Busia County government has failed, says Budalang'i MP Ababu Namwamba

Budalang'i MP Ababu Namwamba

The local government has not initiated tangible development projects since 2013, Budalang'i MP Ababu Namwamba has said.

Mr Namwamba said residents had anticipated devolution would transform their lives but the dream has remained a mirage. "This is an embarrassment! So far there is no project residents can associate with, yet when you visit neighbouring counties you see good roads and a number of projects in health and agriculture," he said.

But Governor Sospeter Ojaamong said his administration has initiated several projects and the criticism was meant to undermine his government.

"People are not sincere with their criticism. I want leaders to be judged by their track record, including those who wish to challenge me next year. They are welcome in the race because wananchi are the ones to decide who becomes governor next year," he said.

Namwamba maintained residents should vet leaders aspiring for elective posts. The lawmaker said Budalang'i residents will not support Ojaamong in next year's general election because he had given them a raw deal.

"The county government of Busia has failed. We are not ready to elect a governor whose priority is not wananchi. I have officially declared war on the county government," Namwamba added. "This time round, we shall not make a mistake of electing leaders using party euphoria."