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Homa Bay County tastes Madaraka goodies as the town is ready to host the National Event

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PS Omollo

By Anderson Ojwang

History is beckoning in Homa Bay County as, for the first time since independence, it will host a national event — one that has brought with it a wave of development projects.

Residents of Homa Bay are finally witnessing the fruits of the Madaraka celebration in terms of development projects that have recently flooded the county.

The celebration, themed “Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs,” will be a case study on how national celebrations can intersect with long-term development agendas, reinforcing the connection between symbolism, investment, and sustainable progress.

Internal Security Permanent Secretary Dr Raymond Omollo said the decision to hold the fete in Homa Bay County was part of a broader national trajectory of inclusivity in development, regional empowerment, and strategic recognition of untapped potential.

“We will deliver a secure, flawless and nationally inclusive Madaraka that leaves a lasting impact on the host region and the country,” he said.

Omollo said the presence of the President and other dignitaries will open up and accelerate Homa Bay County’s appeal to investors, boost infrastructure development, and unlock tourism and trade potential for the future.

Omollo noted that Homa Bay Town, which previously had modest infrastructure, has now been elevated into a national hub capable of hosting one of the country’s public holidays.

“Homa Bay Town has witnessed comprehensive infrastructural upgrades and the plan to prepare the town for its historic role is on schedule,” he said.

He added that the transformation has resulted in a fully modernised Raila Odinga Stadium, upgraded road networks in the town, rehabilitation of Kabunde Airstrip, improved public facilities, and a rejuvenated waterfront.

“At the Raila Odinga Stadium, the government expanded the stadium’s capacity and upgraded its facilities to ensure it meets the national ceremonial standards for the event. The seating has been increased to accommodate 20,000 spectators, while the construction of terraces, roofing of pavilions, and installation of security features will ensure the safety and comfort of all guests,” he said.

He said the stadium will have a media zone, emergency exits, floodlights, and modern parade grounds, making it suitable for sports tournaments, regional events, and national state functions.

Omollo said that in a bid to improve access to the venue and general transport in the area, the government is upgrading more than 35 kilometres of roads currently under construction or rehabilitation within the town and its outskirts.

“The roads include a 1.2km ceremonial road from the pier to the stadium, 2km road connecting Arojo to the stadium, 10.8km of urban roads being improved, and rural link roads including Wahamba-Imbo (11km) and Ruga-Lala (12km), which are being murramed and upgraded to improve public access,” he said.

At Kabunde Airstrip, which will serve as the landing site for dignitaries, various works are ongoing including the construction of a modern terminal with check-in counters, waiting lounges, secure exits, and VIP holding areas.

Omollo said the County Commissioner’s residence is being upgraded to host the state garden party, with improvements including landscaping, internal renovation, new sanitation systems, and the raising of the perimeter wall.

For the first time in history, Homa Bay will also have a mini State Lodge — a temporary presidential residence to house the Head of State and host the Presidential Luncheon for the event.

“The government is rehabilitating the Homa Bay Pier, once a neglected transport hub on Lake Victoria. The rehabilitation of the pier is intended to reintroduce Homa Bay as an important player in the water transport ecosystem,” he said.

During the event, various activities will take place at the pier, including demonstrations of safe fish handling and cold chain preservation, launch of safe fish boats and maritime safety equipment, exhibitions of fish farming technologies such as floating cages and hatcheries, and showcases of climate-resilient water transportation and clean energy solutions for communities.

To solidify the theme of the event, the Ministry of Mining and Blue Economy will use the occasion to highlight key policies, including:

“The rollout of the Kenya Blue Economy Strategy 2023–2027, the launch of new regulations governing fish landing sites and marine transport, opening of additional training centres for boat operators and safety officers, and announcements of new investments in aquaculture and fish processing zones,” he said.

Homa Bay County remains dear to President William Ruto, having visited it more frequently than any of the other 46 counties.

In Homa Bay, President Ruto has entrusted Dr Omollo and Cabinet Secretary for Treasury and Economic Planning Mr John Mbadi with key positions.

It is in Homa Bay where the President’s party, United Democratic Alliance (UDA), has offices down to the ward level, has conducted peaceful party primaries, and has elected officials at the county level.

Homa Bay Governor and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) National Chairperson, Gladys Wanga, is an ardent ally of President Ruto and one of the key supporters of the broad-based government.

Wanga has been critical of those opposed to the broad-based arrangement and has been vouching for a UDA–ODM working alliance.

FIBA mid-term congress in Bahrain recognizes the fallen Kenya’s hero Otula

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By Anderson Ojwang

International Basketball Federation (FIBA) mid-term Congress Manama, Bahrain recognized and honored the fallen Kenya’s towering giant Mwalimu Paul Agali Otula during its opening session.

During the Mid Term Congress, a record of 167 Federations national delegates attended the event with the photo of Kenya Basketball Federation President Otula was displayed to the delegates.

The delegates also marked a moment of silence in honor of the fallen giant with the FIBA secretary general Andrea Zaglkis saying they miss Otula and his contribution to the sports.

At the event, Kenya was represented by KBF Secretary General Angela Luchivya, who said several delegates sent their condolence to the federation and the family.

“It was such an emotional moment.

Otula was liked by many.

His contributions to the sports were globally recognized and we will surely miss his vast wealth of knowledge,” she said.

Back at home, the National Olympic Committee (NOC) has postponed its elections in honor of Otula.

Otula was vying for the post of deputy treasurer before his untimely demise.

Otula will be buried this week on 23rd March 2025 at his home in Kanyaluo village, in Rachuonyo North Sub County.

The family has planned a funds drive on Tuesday 20th March 2025 at All Saints Cathedral and funeral service on the following day at Lavington SDA Church.

Kibra MP Mr. Peter Orero, who is also KBF treasurer is the chairman of the burial committee, appealed to Kenyans to honor the fallen giant.

“Otula was a giant in all front. We want to honor with a dignified burial.

I appeal to all Kenyans to join hand with us at this trying moment,” he said.

Otula was arguably Kenya’s giant in terms of his height, size and performance as administrators in education, sports, and leadership.

Otula, the country’s towering giant bowed out, after what family suspects to be as a result of cardiac arrest. 

Otula was one of the country’s finest education and sports administrator, former Kenya International basketball player, and a respected author.

Otula was a man with golden hand and whatever he touched glowed and turned into gold.

Success followed Otula everywhere he went, from classroom, to the office and into the gym, where he transformed his subjects into the country’s finest products.

Otula was a man of the first, honors, accolades and awards became part of his world.

Otula, the educationist, administrator and author, was a believer in performance with his driving philosophy of nurturing an all-round individual.

He was a strong believer on excellent performance, ability and honesty, the driving principles that shaped his administration and leadership.

From a classroom English and Literature teacher, in Mbita High School, he was transferred to Mangu High school, where he rose to become the Chief Principal, and was later transferred to Maseno school.

From Maseno school, Otula briefly became the Chief Principal of Sunshine Secondary School.

In his career as a teacher and administrator, Otula transformed Mangu High school, Maseno School and Sunshine Secondary School to be top schools in the country.

From school management, Otula was one of the best sports administrators and the longest serving chairman of Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF).

He was a member of the National Olympic Committee (NOC) and led the Kenya’s Olympic team to France in 2024.

He had a declared interest for the seat of Deputy Treasurer in the coming NOC election.

Otula transformed the game and took the country to the continental limelight where Kenya’s National Basketball teams are ranked highly.

From a once empty basketball gym, Otula made basketball to be loved sports and currently, the gym is filled to the brim.

Otula also oversaw the actualization of a new KBF constitution that is in tandem with the Sports Act as required by the constitution.

The news of Otula’s death shook the country from all quarters, within the teaching fraternity, sports, former students, colleagues, politicians, friends and relatives.

After sacking of Odoyo who is next in line?

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President ruto

By Team

The sacking of a key ally of President William Ruto as chairman of a parastatal and subsequent replacement by a key ally of former Prime minister Raila Odinga has raised questions. 

Is the President’s party United Democratic Alliance (UDA) cannibalizing itself in Nyanza?

Or is Raila’s party Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) sending out a strong message to its former members who defected to UDA to either toe the line or face the sack?

The revocation of the appointment of Mr. Odoyo Owidi as the chairman of Lake Victoria South Water Works Development Agency has split the region.

In the Kenya Gazette dated 16th May 2025 by cabinet secretary for water, sanitation and irrigation read “In the exercise of the powers conferred by section 66 (1) of the water act, as read together with section 51 (1) of the interpretation and general provisions act, the cabinet secretary for water, sanitation and irrigation appoints Mr. Dan Omino to be the Non-Executive Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Lake Victoria South Water Works Development Agency, for a period of three years, with effect from 16th May 2025.

The appointment of Odoyo Owidi is revoked.”

Omino is the younger brother to former Kisumu West MP the late Joab Omino, who was one of the main key allies and advisor of Raila.

Similarly, the President in the same gazette notice published “In the exercise of the powers conferred by section 58(a) of the Energy Act, I William Samoei Ruto, president of the republic of Kenya and commander-in chief of the Defense Forces, appoint.

Prof Lawrence O. Gumbe  to be the non-executive chairperson of board of nuclear energy agency, for a period of four years, with effect from the date 16th May 2025.”

Gumbe has been Raila ally and were the founder members of Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in which Raila entered into alliance with Mwai Kibaki when he defected from Kanu to form Narc coalition in 2002 presidential election.

Ahead of the 2022 general election, Odoyo was a close ally of Raila and a confidant of Mama Ida Odinga and was fondly referred to as ”my son”.

However, he bolted out after the party ticket for Kasipul was handed over to the late Ongondo Were.

The vocal Odoyo became the critic of Odinga and the ODM party leadership.

He defected to UDA where he became the face of the party Homa Bay county and other parts of the region and has been in the forefront of marketing the party in Nyanza.

Mr. Joshua Nyamori, also a director in one of the parastatals said they were prepared for the sack but maintained that their support for President Ruto will not be affected by the sacking.

“The sacking will not undermine our support for the president. If it can help stabilize his presidency and secure a second term. We are prepared to take the bullet for him,” he said.

 He said the sacking will not target civil servants from the region who support the president.

“We knew that at one point there was pressure to have those who moved to UDA before ODM to be sacked.

It is unfortunate but we are used to the trend.

It didn’t start today” he said.

Will endorsements define the Nandi gubernatorial race?

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By Remmy Butia

The race for Nandi County’s gubernatorial seat is heating up, with key political endorsements shaping the dynamics of the contest.

These endorsements carry significant weight, often influencing voter perceptions and swaying political momentum.

The latest high-profile backing comes from State House Press Secretary Emmanuel Tallam, who has thrown his support behind Allan Kosgey, son of veteran politician Henry Kosgey.

The Significance of Tallam’s Endorsement of Allan Kosgey

Henry Kosgey, the longest-serving MP for Tinderet and former long-serving Cabinet Minister, remains a towering figure in Nandi politics.

His son, Allan Kosgey, now enjoys the backing of a key State House official, Emmanuel Tallam.

This endorsement suggests that Allan may have the tacit support of the national government, a crucial factor in Kenyan politics where presidential influence often dictates county-level outcomes.

Tallam’s public backing could signal that the Kenya Kwanza administration is keen on shaping Nandi’s leadership, possibly to align the county more closely with the national government’s agenda.

Given Henry Kosgey’s deep-rooted political network, Allan’s candidacy may appeal to both the old guard and younger voters looking for continuity with a fresh face.

Gachagua’s Earlier Endorsement of Julius Melly

Before his impeachment, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua had endorsed Tinderet MP Julius Melly for the Nandi governorship. Melly, a third-term MP, has significant grassroots support and is seen as a seasoned politician with a strong development record in Tinderet.

Gachagua’s endorsement was a major boost for Melly, as it positioned him as a favorite of the previous administration’s power brokers.

However, with Gachagua’s political standing now uncertain following his impeachment, the weight of his endorsement may have diminished.

Melly’s campaign will now need to rely more on his own political machinery and track record rather than external backing.

Cynthia Muge: The Dark Horse with Powerful Backing?

Nandi Woman Representative Cynthia Muge is another strong contender, with whispers suggesting she enjoys the favor of Head of Public Service and Chief of Staff Felix Koskei.

Muge, a former independent Member of the County Assembly (MCA) for Kilibwoni Ward, has built a reputation as a grassroots mobilizer.

If Koskei, a powerful figure in the Office of the President, is indeed backing her, Muge could emerge as a formidable candidate.

Her appeal lies in her independence from the traditional political dynasties and her ability to connect with women and youth voters.

However, she will need to counter the perception that she is an outsider in a race dominated by well-entrenched political families.

What These Endorsements Mean for the Race

  1. National vs. Local Influence – Tallam’s endorsement of Allan Kosgey suggests that the national government may prefer a candidate aligned with its interests, while Melly’s initial backing by Gachagua represented the previous regime’s preference. Muge’s rumored support from Koskei adds another layer of national influence.
  2. Dynasty Politics vs. New Faces – The Kosgey name carries historical weight, while Melly represents the current political establishment. Muge, on the other hand, offers a break from the usual political dynasties, which could resonate with voters seeking change.
  3. Grassroots Mobilization – While endorsements matter, the eventual winner will still need strong grassroots support. Melly’s experience as an MP gives him an edge in mobilization, but Muge’s MCA background and Kosgey’s family network make them serious challengers.

The Nandi gubernatorial race is shaping up to be a battle of endorsements, political legacies, and grassroots appeal.

While Tallam’s backing of Allan Kosgey and Gachagua’s earlier support for Melly highlight the influence of national figures, Cynthia Muge’s rumored connections to Felix Koskei make her a wildcard. Ultimately, the candidate who can balance elite endorsements with genuine voter connection will likely carry the day.

As the campaigns intensify, Nandi residents will be watching closely to see which narrative – and which endorsement – holds the most sway.

How VAT Special Table is Killing Businesses: The Reverse Trial of Taxpayers at KRA

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Billy Mijungu

By Billy Mijungu

There is a silent crisis unravelling across Kenya’s business landscape. A slow, grinding pain that starts with a letter unseen, a flag raised quietly, and a PIN suddenly suspended. The Kenya Revenue Authority, in its zeal to enforce compliance, has created a mechanism known as the VAT Special Table, a little-known procedural trap with devastating consequences for businesses, many of which are innocent of wrongdoing.

This mechanism, meant to target tax irregularities, has instead become a sentence served before trial. A quiet death of enterprise. A reverse trial in motion.

When KRA places a taxpayer or their supplier on this so-called VAT Special Table, the system does not just freeze. It cripples. Your Personal Identification Number is suspended without warning, your business activities come to a halt, and your clients who may have genuinely transacted with you find themselves unable to claim input VAT.

The digital system rejects your PIN. They cannot file VAT returns using your details. They bear a cost they should not, and you, the seller, begin to bleed clients, reputation, and revenue.

In this Kafkaesque setup, the system presumes guilt without investigation. A trader who has built goodwill, fulfilled orders, issued tax invoices, and remained compliant is instantly labelled a suspect. Yet the crime remains undefined. No audit. No hearing. No warning. Just silence and exclusion.

Consider the dire financial impact. A business records output VAT of 130,000 shillings and input VAT of 100,000. Under normal circumstances, the business would pay the difference, 30,000. But imagine two of the suppliers who contributed 40,000 to that input VAT are placed on the VAT Special Table. Without that 40,000 being claimable, the business can now only offset 60,000, meaning they are forced to pay 70,000 in VAT. Not because of fraud. Not because of dishonesty. But because the system has blocked their input. Legitimate tax credit denied. Cash flow is shredded.

In a world where liquidity means survival, this burden is enough to break even the strongest enterprises.

Businesses are no longer growing organically. They are being forced into survival mode, constantly pushing themselves into a pay position, even when their books are clean and their operations are above board. They are no longer expanding through innovation or customer satisfaction. They are simply paying to stay alive. It is no longer about building value, it is about staying out of the VAT Special Table.

This is not a hypothetical scenario. This is the reality that many businesses are confronting today. With a circulating list of over 5,000 companies now on the VAT Special Table, the impact is not isolated. It is systemic. Businesses are interconnected. The exclusion of one player echoes across entire supply chains. Large tax contributors now find themselves entangled with blacklisted suppliers. And just like that, the web unravels. Sales drop. Clients walk away. Entire business models collapse.

All this unfolds in silence, shrouded by fear. Traders are unwilling to raise their voices. They dread triggering comprehensive audits where even the smallest human error could be penalised heavily. This fear has fueled corruption, empowering rogue officers to extort struggling entrepreneurs with promises of removal from the VAT Special Table. A new economy of bribery blooms, ironically born from a system meant to fight tax evasion.

The injustice is staggering. A trader can be made to suffer, to lose clients, lose credit, lose cash flow, and face potential collapse, all before any audit or investigation is conducted. There is no presumption of innocence. No platform to be heard. No room to rectify. It is imprisonment before trial. It is punishment before the process. It is, in every way, a violation of the rights enshrined in the Constitution and a betrayal of the Tax Procedures Act.

This is not merely a tax enforcement issue. It is a national economic risk. Every unjust suspension, every wrongly flagged PIN, adds another grain to the avalanche of business closures. KRA must stop. It must audit before it punishes. It must investigate before it accuses. It must restore trust in the system. Because what we are witnessing now is not just the erosion of tax compliance. It is the erosion of the very spirit of enterprise in Kenya.

Let justice guide our taxation. Let fairness precede enforcement. And let no taxpayer ever be sentenced before trial again.

Gachagua launches DCP, declares no direct nomination ticket, promises President Ruto a battle at the ballot

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By Anderson Ojwang

Finally, Kenyans will be expecting the battle of the titans between President William Ruto and his impeached Deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, at the August 2027 general elections.

After resigning from his party, United Democratic Alliance (UDA), Gachagua unveiled his new political outfit, Democracy Citizen Party (DCP), with which he hopes to face President Ruto.

Through the party, Gachagua first hopes to lock Ruto out of the vote-rich Mt Kenya region to deny him a second presidential term.

And to ensure that he consolidates the Mountain and avoids fallouts during nominations, Gachagua declared that the party will not issue direct nominations to candidates — all aspirants will be expected to fight for the nomination ticket at the primaries.

Equally, Gachagua has told President William Ruto that he has a date with him in August 2027 at the ballot box.

“We will stop at nothing to make Kenya a better place, with good governance and leadership in place. The people of Kenya have unfinished business with you. I have a date with you in August 2027,” he said.

Gachagua’s declaration is a departure from the majority of the main political parties that have consistently given out direct tickets to their preferred candidates, denying other aspirants the opportunity to competitively engage with their opponents.

The trend of issuing direct nomination tickets has been common practice in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), United Democratic Alliance (UDA), Jubilee Party, Ford-K, among others.

These parties enjoy massive following in their political bedrocks, and a party ticket for any elective post is almost an assurance of election victory.

“So far, we have received various requests from aspirants who want to run for various positions on the party ticket.

The requests are from all over the country. We have requests for gubernatorial, senatorial, parliamentary, women representative, and Member of County Assembly positions.

I want to assure any of our aspirants that we have no favourite candidate. I want to urge you to register and embark on membership recruitment for the party. It is the members who will give us the candidates that they have chosen for the various seats.

The election board will organise elections and nominations in accordance with the party’s constitution and structures.

This party has no favourite candidate. We have no provision for direct nomination. The party believes in the ideology of ‘let the people decide’.

I want to state here that I have many leaders and friends who have walked and stood with me during the trying moments.

But I want to confirm to you here that none of them will get direct nomination. Let everyone be prepared to fight for the ticket during the party primaries,” he said.

Gachagua’s DCP is likely to be the dominant party in Mt Kenya after he recently resigned from UDA. The battle for the party ticket is likely to ignite a fierce political contest in the region.

UDA, under President William Ruto, was the dominant party in Mt Kenya during the 2022 elections. But after the fallout and subsequent impeachment of his deputy, the party is now struggling to regain its footing in the slippery Mountain.

Gachagua said the party’s philosophy and slogan are based on listening to the ground, with a symbol of a listening ear.

“Today marks an important day in the history of democracy in Kenya. Indeed, today is a Kenyan moment. I bring forth my response to the calls by Kenyans for a new vehicle. I am giving them back their right that they have been denied for so long.

Our nation is sinking in high taxation, raiding of payslips, poor healthcare among others. We must salvage the country.

Listening to the people of Kenya is a calling, while actively listening to people is a duty.

I have spent six months at my Wamunyoro village listening to people. I have engaged in a series of consultations with leaders, businesspeople, students, scholars, and ordinary Kenyans on various platforms. I have held several media interviews on national TV stations and online sessions on TikTok and X Spaces.

One thing is clear — they had nobody to listen to their cry.

They want to participate in the leadership and governance of their country.

Going forward, the future of the nation lies in Gen Z and millennials. They have demanded to be listened to and be included in the leadership. That is why we decided to give them leadership positions in our party.

Today is the time for the liberation of our nation. Kenyans have told us to form a political party and to form an inclusive government — a government for the people and by the people — and that is what I am going to do.

We took the challenge. I made a promise to you that in May 2025, I would unveil a new political party. I have kept my word. We finally have a political party that belongs to us. We believe that every citizen must be listened to by the leaders.

As the party leader, I will listen to the people. I will continue to listen to their voices. This is the biggest political movement in the country since 1963,” he said.

The National Rating Act 2024: A New Era for Property Taxation in Kenya – Gains, Pains, and impending Legal Battles  

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By Dr. Edris Omondi (Advocate)

attorneyedris@ywcg.org

(Strategic Thinker, Author, Motivational Speaker, Preacher and a Lawyer)

Kenya’s devolved system of governance has long struggled with inconsistencies in property valuation and taxation, leading to revenue collection inefficiencies. The National Rating Act 2024, which repeals the outdated ‘Rating Act’ and ‘Valuation for Rating Act’, seeks to standardise property valuation and taxation across all 47 counties. However, its implementation won’t be without legal battles, financial losses for counties that had already developed their own valuation laws, and debates over its constitutionality.  

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the new law, its implications, and the challenges the 47 counties are likely to face in complying with it.  

Why the National Rating Act 2024?  

Previously, counties operated under the Rating Act (Cap 267) and the Valuation for Rating Act (Cap 266), which were relics of the defunct local government system. These laws were ill-suited for devolution, leading to:

  1. Inconsistent valuation methods – Counties used different criteria, causing unfair taxation.  
  2. Weak enforcement – Many property owners defaulted without consequences.  
  3. Revenue leak – Poor systems allowed evasion, depriving counties of crucial funds.  

The National Rating Act 2024 was introduced to:

  1. Harmonise property valuation– Ensuring uniformity across counties.  
  2. Strengthen enforcement – Allowing auctioning of properties for unpaid rates.  
  3. Enhance transparency – Reducing corruption in valuation processes.  

Key Provisions of the National Rating Act 2024 

  1. Repeal of Old Laws – Nullifies all county-specific rating laws, forcing counties to adopt the national framework.  
  2. Standardised Valuation – Establishes a uniform method for assessing property values.  
  3. Strict Enforcement – Defaulters risk property auctions if they fail to pay rates.  
  4. County Compliance– Requires counties to align their systems with the new law.  

Constitutionality of the National Rating Act 2024

The law has sparked debate over whether it infringes on ‘county autonomy’ under Article 209(3) of the Constitution, which grants counties the power to impose property rates.

Critics argue: 

❌ Overreach by National Government – The Act centralises what should be a devolved function.  

❌ Wasted Investments – Several Counties spent millions developing their own valuation laws, now rendered obsolete.  

Proponents counter that:  

✅ Uniformity is necessary – Disparities in rates discouraged investment and created confusion.  

✅ Stronger revenue collection– A standardized system reduces loopholes and increases county incomes.  

Ideally, sooner or later, the courts may ultimately decide whether the law respects devolution or undermines it.  

Pros of the National Rating Act 2024 

✔ Fairness – Prevents arbitrary valuations that favour politically connected individuals.  

✔ Increased Revenue – Stronger enforcement means more funds for county services.  

✔ Investor Confidence – Predictable taxation attracts real estate development.  

Cons and Challenges

❌ Legal Battles – Counties are likely to challenge the law in court.  

❌ Financial Losses – Millions spent on county-specific valuation laws are now wasted.  

❌ Implementation Delays– Transitioning to the new system may take years, slowing revenue collection.  

The Way Forward

1. Court Clarification– The judiciary should determine whether the law respects devolution.  

2. County Engagement – The national government should consult counties before full implementation.  

3. Phased Transition – Allow counties time to adapt without losing revenue.  

Conclusion: The National Rating Act 2024 is a bold step toward streamlining property taxation in Kenya. However, its top-down approach risks alienating counties that have already invested in their own systems. For the law to succeed, the national government must balance standardization with respect for devolution, or risk prolonged legal battles and

What is really the trouble with Homa Bay County Government on employment?

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Wanga

By Team

What could be the real trouble with the Homa Bay County Government on employment?

Could there be a ring of cartels in the County Government who issue appointment letters and UPN numbers to unsuspecting victims and have a blessing from a senior government official?

Welcome to Homa Bay County, the land of endless potential where 101 individuals have been integrated into the new HRS system but are not in the manual payroll.

Where 107 individuals have UPN numbers but are not earning salaries while 64 officers are working but lack UPN numbers.

Similarly, where allegations of irregular appointments without competitive recruitment, nepotism and favouritism thrive.

In a letter dated 13th March 2025 to the County Secretary by the County Public Service Board captioned: “Re- Disengagement of individuals from county public service,”

It reads, “Following your letter dated 19th February 2025, REF: HB/CTY/CS/CPSB/VOLX(69) that required the Board to verify the employment status of 107 officers who have UPN numbers but do not earn salary and 64 officers working but lack UPN numbers, the Board conducted the verification as per the request.

From the verification exercise, the Board established that 100 individuals who have UPN numbers but are not earning salaries and 61 individuals working but lack UPN numbers are not employees.

Therefore, the Board in its meeting held on 11th March 2025 resolved to disengage them from the County Public Service.

The sole purpose of this letter is to request you to implement the Board’s decision on the matter,” Ruth Aloo, Acting Chief Executive Officer wrote.

Yesterday, we revealed how 101 individuals found themselves as employees of Homa Bay County Government while they were not recruited by the County Public Service Board.

Subsequently, the Board wrote to the County Secretary to stop salaries of 101 employees who were irregularly recruited.

The Board’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Ruth Aloo in her letter to the County Secretary dated 25th March 2025, captioned “Re: Stoppage of salaries” was in response to earlier communication that wanted the Board to verify employment status of 158 employees at the County.

She wrote, “The above subject matter refers. Following your letter dated 12th March 2025, REF: HB./CTY/CS/CPSB/VOL.X (130) that required the Board to verify the employment status of one hundred and fifty-eight officers who were not in manual payroll but were integrated into the HRIS in the months of March, May, June and July 2024, the Board conducted verification per the request.

From the scrutiny and verification conducted, the Board established that one hundred and one individuals who were integrated into the new HRIS in the said months of 2024 are not its bona fide employees since they were not recruited by the Board.

Therefore, in its meeting held on 24th March 2025 under MIN5/PSB/24TH MARCH/2025, the Board resolved to stop their salaries. Details of the 101 individuals are captured below in appendix 1.

On the same note, three individuals listed in appendix 2 are to appear before the Board on 3rd April 2025 for further verification.

The sole purpose of this letter is to direct you to implement the Board’s decision and stop the salaries of 101 officers and initiate disciplinary process against officers who facilitated their irregular engagement with the County Government.”

Mr Evance Otieno Gor, the Chairperson, Interface Community Help Desk Organisation wants the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to investigate the emerging employment scandals at the County.

“It is time the County Assembly and government investigating agencies moved in to investigate the employment scandals at the County. Innocent people could be suffering and losing hundreds of thousands of shillings in fraudulently acquired employment opportunities at the County,” he said.

Gor also claimed some vacant positions have been filled without competitive recruitment which is against the law.

But the County Secretary Prof Benard Muok said the government had embarked on internal mechanisms to weed out corruption.

“We initiated the verifications to clean up the payroll and ensure we don’t have individuals not employed by us masquerading as our employees,” he said in a text response.

Last year, we exclusively exposed how a Homa Bay man allegedly lost Sh240,000 in a fake employment racket at the County.

The victim wrote to Governor Gladys Wanga over his ordeal and possible intervention.

In his letter he claimed, he lost the money to individuals working closely with the County Public Service Board members.

In a letter dated 26th September 2024, one Jactone Oduor claimed that a person (name withheld for legal reasons) conned him of the said amount in exchange for a letter of appointment for Evance Henry Opiyo, who was recruited as a Revenue Clerk (I) position on 12th June 2023.

He said, despite his son receiving an appointment letter on 1st May 2023, he was yet to be absorbed.

“The above named is my son and I am writing this complaint letter on his behalf, as one who was swindled by fraudsters.

He (Evance) was given an appointment letter for the above post which has not materialised to date.

First, I sent an M-Pesa payment of Sh80,000 on demand by the suspect on the pretence that the available position was for Revenue Clerk (III).

Then he demanded another Sh60,000, claiming that the boy was overqualified for the above post, being that he was a graduate with Bachelor’s degree in Commerce and a CPA (IV), hence he needed my son to be recruited as Revenue Clerk (I).

For the record, the accomplice received the Sh100,000 in cash, in the presence of my son and then he handed over the appointment letter to us.

We gave a total of Sh240,000 to the suspects.

Hon Governor, I am still stranded with my son at home and I humbly request for your intervention so that my son Evance can secure employment,” he wrote.

According to the appointment letter issued and signed by Homa Bay County Secretary and Head of Public Service Prof Benard Muok, reference number HB/PSB/APP2023/VOL1/10, Evance was appointed as Revenue Clerk One position and was to earn Sh31,270 per month with house allowance of Sh5,800, commuter allowance of Sh4,000 and another leave allowance of Sh4,000 per annum.

The letter was also signed by Evance upon receipt and read:

“I am pleased to inform you that following the successful interview held for the above position, the Public Service Board has approved your appointment to the position of Revenue Clerk One.

This appointment takes effect from 1st May 2023.”

But Muok denied signing the letter, saying the signature was fake.

“This is not my signature. It is a fake one. The best would be to report to the police,” he said.

Why Leasing of Miwani Sugar Company May Take Longer Than Expected Over Legal Dilemma

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By Anderson Ojwang

The proposed leasing of Miwani Sugar Company has run into a legal technicality and dilemma after the advocate for the Receiver Manager declined to execute the proposed consent.

Advocate David Otieno, of Owiti, Otieno and Ragot Advocates, referred the matter to the appointing authority to liaise with the Office of the Attorney General to deal with the matter in accordance with the law.

Otieno, in his letter to the Receiver Manager of Miwani Sugar Company Limited, captioned “Kisumu COA Civil Appeal No. 207 of 2021, Miwani Sugar Company (1989) Ltd (in receivership) vs Crossley Holding Limited and 6 others,” stated:

“Thank you for your letter dated 22nd April 2025, the contents of which I have noted.

As I understand it, the instructions that you have relayed to us flow from a directive that you have received from the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, instructing you to instruct us to sign a consent settling the matter.

The consent has been drafted by the Attorney General in line with a certain decision of the Cabinet. I have not seen the Cabinet decision and therefore cannot tell whether the consent as drafted is in line with the cited Cabinet decision.

Be that as it may, I understand the draft consent to express the position that a decision has been taken by the Cabinet that land reference No. 7845/3 (L.R. 210380), measuring approximately 9,394 acres – which has been and continues to be subject of several pieces of litigation in which I act for you – now belongs to M/s Crossley Holding Limited, who have now agreed to cede 2,000 acres thereof for the purpose of the establishment of a Special Economic Zone and for any other purpose of a public nature as the Government may deem fit.

As you are aware, Crossley Holdings claim to have purchased the property in a public auction on 24th December 2007, for Sh753, in a sale said to have been ordered by the court in Kisumu HCCC No. 225 of 1993.

In that suit and other several matters that followed in the High Court, the Environment and Land Court, and the Court of Appeal, we have taken the position that not a cent was paid for the property by the alleged purchaser, and that the processes by which Crossley Holdings Limited acquired title to the land were illegal and fraudulent from start to finish.

You will recall that in Civil Appeal No. 261 of 2008, filed by the person who allegedly held the decree whose execution birthed the alleged sale and title, the Court of Appeal, in dismissing the appeal against you, reiterated that the entire process by which the property was sold and title issued to Crossley Holdings Limited was based solely on a void judgement, and the process could not pass any title to anyone.

That decision has never been contested. Crossley Holdings was a party to the appeal and had supported the ill-fated appeal.

We have always maintained that this is indeed the position. We have rendered numerous opinions to yourselves and explained in numerous meetings with yourselves, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, the Ministry of Lands and the Kenya Sugar Board.

In our view, this position has not changed. The proposed consent seeks to have us take a position that is completely incongruent with what we have consistently advised, what is in the pleadings and affidavits filed, and what we maintain is the correct legal position.

It does not paint a good picture of us as counsel from the professional perspective to now take a different position.

We see no reason to depart from the position we have taken since 2007 — that the title which Crossley Holdings Limited holds is, in view of the foregoing and especially in the face of the decision of the Court of Appeal cited above and Article 40(6) of the Constitution, not a title that can give the said entity any right to alienate any part of the land through the proposed consent or at all.

You are aware of the circumstances in which the Government acquired an interest in the land and the reasons why the land was not transferred to Miwani Sugar Co. (1989) Limited. As was expected, I am aware that the original titles are still with yourselves.

In our view, therefore, the land is and remains public land which the Government holds in trust for the public.

It can therefore only be dealt with in keeping with the process by which all public land is dealt with. The proposed consent does not meet the requirements of due process expected in all dealings with public land.

I have noted that the proposed settlement seeks to have the consent recorded in the Court of Appeal Civil Appeal No. E207 of 2021, which is an appeal against the judgement in ELC Constitutional Petition No. 6 of 2020 — a grossly erroneous decision which purported to sanitise the title held by Crossley Holdings Limited.

It would be a very odd step for us to execute and file a consent in a matter which has not even started. I still do not understand how that can be done. In any case, the Court of Appeal does not execute its orders and decrees. It remits its orders and decrees to the court which made the decision appealed against for implementation or execution.

Filing the consent in the Court of Appeal therefore makes no sense at all.

It appears to me that the Government, by coming up with the Cabinet decision referred to in your letter, has decided that the land belongs to Crossley Holdings Limited, who have through some process of negotiation agreed to cede a portion of the land to the Government.

The Attorney General is the legal advisor to the Government. Since she is part of the Government and sits in the Cabinet, she can proceed to lead the process by executing or advising on the preparation of all that needs to be prepared and executed to facilitate the implementation of the Cabinet decision.

Once she is clear that the process meets the requirements of the law, she can proceed without requiring us to sign anything.

If the Government now wants to accept that Crossley’s title is valid and the position we maintain is totally wrong, it can get the share of the land that it appears to have negotiated to receive from Crossley Holdings Limited directly from them without having to file the consent.”

Over the weekend, the takeover was actualised, with West Kenya Sugar Company taking over Nzoia Sugar Company, while Kibos Sugar and Allied Industries Ltd took over Chemelil Sugar Company.

Sony Sugar Company was leased to Busia Sugar Industry, and West Valley Sugar Company Ltd took over Muhoroni Sugar Company.

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe said the Ministry has assured the public that no public land would be sold or acquired under the leasing agreements. Further, all assets belonging to the four sugar companies would remain the Government’s property.

“I would like to assure the public and all stakeholders that the negotiated terms represent the best possible outcome to ensure the revival of the sugar sector. I call upon your continued support in realising this vision. The Ministry remains fully committed and ready to address any concerns that may arise,” Kagwe remarked.

But Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o has called for the suspension of the exercise, saying there was no public participation or approval by the people of Kisumu County.

“We are concerned about the Miwani nucleus sugar land, which is being transferred through opaque arrangements despite the ongoing court case. This is nothing short of daylight robbery and an economic coup against over 60,000 farmers involving 15,000 hectares of land,” he said.

Who Bypassed the Homa Bay Public Service Board to Integrate 101 Individuals into the County New Payroll?

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Wanga

By Team

Questions have emerged over how 101 individuals found themselves employed by the Homa Bay County Government despite not being recruited by the County Public Service Board.

Similarly, how and who was responsible for integrating these individuals into the county’s new Human Resource Information System (HRIS) while they were not listed in the manual payroll?

Could this be part of a wider cartel within the Homa Bay County Government responsible for issuing fake employment letters to unsuspecting victims in return for hundreds of thousands of shillings in bribes?

Now, the Homa Bay County Public Service Board has written to the County Secretary to stop the salaries of 101 employees who were irregularly recruited.

The Board’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Ruth Aloo, in her letter to the County Secretary dated 25th March 2025, captioned “Re: Stoppage of Salaries,” was responding to earlier communication requesting the board to verify the employment status of 158 county employees.

She wrote:
“The above subject matter refers. Following your letter dated 12th March 2025, REF HB./CTY/CS/CPSB/VOL.X (130), which required the board to verify the employment status of one hundred and fifty-eight officers who were not in the manual payroll but were integrated into the HRIS in the months of March, May, June and July 2024, the board conducted verification as requested.

From the scrutiny and verification conducted, the board established that one hundred and one individuals who were integrated into the new HRIS in the said months of 2024 are not its bona fide employees, as they were not recruited by the board.

Therefore, in its meeting held on 24th March 2025 under MIN5/PSB/24TH MARCH/2025, the board resolved to stop their salaries. Details of the 101 individuals are captured in Appendix 1.

On the same note, three individuals listed in Appendix 2 are to appear before the board on 3rd April 2025 for further verification.

The sole purpose of this letter is to direct you to implement the board’s decision and stop the salaries of the 101 officers and initiate disciplinary processes against officers who facilitated their irregular engagement with the county government.”

Homa Bay County is increasingly being viewed as a theatre of the absurd, where employment scandals, such as claims of job “auctioning” and the issuance of fake appointment letters, are becoming the norm.

Last year, we exclusively exposed how a Homa Bay man allegedly lost Sh240,000 in a fake employment racket at the county.

The victim wrote to Governor Gladys Wanga regarding his ordeal and requested her intervention.

In his letter, he claimed he lost the money to individuals working closely with members of the County Public Service Board.

In a letter dated 26th September 2024, one Jactone Oduor claimed that a person — name withheld for legal reasons — conned him of the said amount in exchange for a letter of appointment for Evance Henry Opiyo, who was recruited as a Revenue Clerk (I) on 12th June 2023.

He said, despite his son receiving an appointment letter on 1st May 2023, he was yet to be absorbed.

“The above named is my son and I am writing this complaint letter on his behalf, as one who was swindled by fraudsters.

He (Evance) was given an appointment letter for the above post which has not materialised to date.

First, I sent an M-Pesa payment of Sh80,000 on demand by the suspect, on the pretence that the available position was for Revenue Clerk (III).

Then he demanded another Sh60,000, claiming that the boy was overqualified for the above post, being a graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce and CPA (IV), and thus needed to be recruited as Revenue Clerk (I).

For the record, the accomplice received Sh100,000 in cash in the presence of my son, and then handed over the appointment letter to us.

We gave a total of Sh240,000 to the suspects.

Hon Governor, I am still stranded with my son at home, and I humbly request your intervention so that my son Evance can secure employment,” he wrote.

According to the appointment letter issued and signed by Homa Bay County Secretary and Head of Public Service, Prof Benard Muok — reference number HB/PSB/APP2023/VOL1/10 — Evance was appointed as Revenue Clerk I and was to earn Sh31,270 per month, with a house allowance of Sh5,800, commuter allowance of Sh4,000, and a leave allowance of Sh4,000 per annum.

The letter was also signed by Evance upon receipt and read:
“I am pleased to inform you that following the successful interview held for the above position, the Public Service Board has approved your appointment to the position of Revenue Clerk I.

This appointment takes effect from 1st May 2023.”

But Prof Muok denied signing the letter, saying the signature was fake.

“This is not my signature. It is a fake one. The best course of action would be to report to the police,” he said

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