Otuoma tells leaders to stop politicking, champion development

Busia Governor Paul Otuoma Investments and Special Funds committee at KICC, Nairobi on July 27, 2023. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

Busia Governor Paul Otuoma and Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo have asked local leaders to stop politicking and focus on development.

The governor and Woman Rep accused some leaders of engaging in politics at the expense of championing for development.

Addressing mourners in Sio Port, Funyula constituency, Dr Otuoma accused some leaders of playing tribal politics for their selfish gain.

He warned youths being used by  leaders to cause mayhem that their days are numbered.

“We have an agenda for the people of Busia, and for those who were elected, we must work for our people now and wait for 2027 to do politics. We will not be derailed by few individuals,” said Otuoma

“We took over a government that had no structures, but we have done a lot and will soon roll out programmes that will change this county with a revived economy anchored on agribusiness, but the change will not be brought about with empty words," he added.

The Woman Rep who is also ODM Deputy Secretary General dismissed claims of political fallout with the governor.

Omanyo said she has been working closely with Otuoma contrary claims that she was a rebel.

She thanked the governor for supporting her appointment as ODM Deputy Secretary General.

"I want to be categorical today and thank Baba Raila Odinga and my governor, Dr Otuoma, who lobbied for the secretary general seat to be awarded to Busia and specifically found it fit that the position be given was me,” said Omanyo.

She pledged to work closely with Otuoma and other like-minded leaders in the county to deliver development.

Omanyo criticised President William Ruto over plans to send 1,000 police officer to Haiti for a peace mission.

She said the mission was dangerous to police since earlier attempts by the Big Brother nations had failed.

"Help us pray and protect our children from the Haiti mission where Great Britain and America, who are the superpowers, tried and failed despite their sophisticated weapons and training. We must prioritize keeping peace within our borders, starting with Sondu and Baringo security,” said Omanyo.