By Allan Kisa and Renson Buluma
Prime Minister Raila Odinga visited flood victims in Budalangi and maintained a dam would be built along the upper course of River Nzoia.
Raila said MPs from Bungoma County should support the project as it offers a long-term solution to perennial flooding in Bugalangi.
"It is unfortunate that there are leaders who are telling their people not leave their land to pave way for the project," he stated.
Plans to construct a dam in Kimilili have been opposed by Bungoma County MPs led by area MP Simiyu Eseli.
The MPs have opposed the plans on grounds that numerous families would have to be relocated. If the project takes off, more than 40, 000 people would be relocated.
On Saturday, Raila said the Government has plans of resettling those who would be affected.
He said building a dam in Kimilili would be the only solution to flooding in Budalangi and parts of Siaya County.
"The ongoing rains have also displaced people in Kimilili. This should be a signal of just how important the project is," he explained.
Raila toured Rwambwa, Goro and Namalo areas where displaced families are camping. Cabinet ministers Paul Otuoma, James Orengo, area MP Ababu Namwamba, and Special Programmes PS, Andrew Mondo, accompanied the Prime Minister.
They all echoed Raila’s sentiments and said the solution to Budalangi flooding lies in constructing a dam in the upper course of River Nzoia.
"Don’t politicise the issue. We need a permanent solution, which is a dam in Bungoma," said Mr Ababu. He took issue with Saboti MP Eugene Wamalwa who he accused of misleading the people of Budalangi.
Raila said rival politicians are using the disaster to seek political mileage.
"They have been coming here to tell you that Ababu is in hiding because of the disaster. They knew very well I had sent Ababu to the US," he added.
The number of people displaced by floods in Budalangi reached 40,000, causing fears of a possible humanitarian crisis.
