William Ruto calls for sacking of Mumias Sugar managers

Bungoma, Kenya: The planned government bail-out of Mumias Sugar Company (MSC) will only work out if the former and the current managers mentioned in the KPMG audit forensic report will be sacked and charged.

This was the tough message Deputy President William Ruto carried for Western region during funds drive at Kimatuni Catholic church in Bumula Constituency Bungoma County.

The Deputy President, said the Government had already advertised for the 21 days notice for a special general meeting to change the leadership before the Sh1 billion is issued to save the near to collapse sugar firm.

The DP said last year the Government pumped in Sh900 million to save MSC, but it ended up being embezzled by a few managers, and therefore the state will not accept to work with the same corrupt officials at the helm of the ailing giant sugar firm.

"We are willing to support Mumias by pumping in billions. We are keen to ensure the sugarcane industry, which serves many Kenyans does not collapse," said the DP.

Mumias East Mp Benjamin Washiali, his Bumula counterpart Boniface Otsiula, Malulu Injendi of Kabras and Sakwa Bunyasi of Nambale asked the Government to intervene so that the farmers could take care of their families.

In response, Ruto promised to revive Mumias into its former glory so that sugarcane farmers don't become paupers.

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Mr Ruto revealed how corrupt managers at the factory were charging farmers Sh4,000 per 50 Kilogram of fertiliser, instead of Sh1,500 that has been recommended.

"This is totally absurd. Instead of the factory subsidising the farmer, it subsidises the transporter. Between the farmer and the transporter who needs profit? We are going to do something to save the poor farmer," said Ruto.

Over 15 MPs, accompanied the Deputy President, including John Waluke (Sirisia), Dan Wanyama (Webuye West), Patrick Wangamati (Nominated), Janet Nangabo (Trans Nzoia Woman rep) and a number of MCAs.

Senate Majority Leader Kindiki Kithure called on the Government to charge all leaders mentioned in corrupt deals that has made the government lose millions of shillings.

"A corrupt person should carry his own cross and stop not mentioning others in the syndicate. Corruption is wrong and should be dealt with accordingly," he said.

Bungoma governor Kenneth Lusaka called for a harmonious working relationship between the county and the National Government.