Home Blog Page 183

ODM rolls out membership drive in preparation for 2027 general elections

By
-
0
Gladys Wanga

By Reporter

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has embarked on a national recruitment drive ahead of the 2027 general elections. Similarly, the party remains focused on its political agenda for the 2027 elections. National Chairperson, Governor Gladys Wanga, said the party focuses on the next general elections.

Wanga, who spoke during the recent party delegates meeting and membership recruitment drive in Kisumu County, said the party has not entered any coalition with any political outfit in the country.
“ODM has no coalition arrangement with the ruling party UDA. The Broad-based Government is a coalition government. ODM is focused on strengthening its policies and strategies for the upcoming election,” she said.

She emphasized that all the party’s structures at all levels have been activated to ensure the recruitment exercise becomes a success.
“It is only by joining the party en masse that ODM will remain stronger. I appeal to you to register and become part of our great party,” she said.

Wanga said ODM will ensure it consolidates its grassroots base and support.
Kisumu Deputy Governor Dr Mathews Owili said they support the new-look party leadership headed by interim Party Leader Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o and Governor Wanga.
Dr Owili said the two are capable of steering the party to greater heights in the absence of the immediate former Party Leader, Raila Odinga, who is currently seeking the African Union (AU) chair.

Governor Wanga expressed ODM’s opposition to Nandi Senator Charargei’s bill, which seeks to amend the constitution to extend elected officers’ tenure from five to seven years.
“As the ODM Party, we unequivocally oppose the Charargei bill. This is not a matter that should be occupying our nation’s focus at this critical time,” she said.

At the function in Nyakach, Governor Wanga was installed as a Nyakach Clan Elder and Warrior by the Luo Elders of Nyakach, entrusting her with the opportunity to lead and support the community as their leader.

Nyando MP Jared Okelo also urged President William Ruto to consider giving additional opportunities to the ODM party.
Okelo made a passionate call to the President to consider giving additional Cabinet Secretary positions to ODM technocrats.
“This stems from a recognition of the positive impacts made by current CSs, particularly in Energy (Opiyo Wandayi) and Finance (John Mbadi) in their dockets. They have led from the front,” he said.

Okelo praised CS Mbadi for implementing strict austerity measures that have fostered financial discipline.
The ODM MPs described the drop in inflation to 2 per cent as good news for Kenyans, attributing this positive development to the country’s current political stability. They believed that a stable political environment contributes to better economic conditions, leading to improved livelihoods for citizens.

Mbadi is on the right path with financial autonomy 

By
-
0
Mbadi

By Clifford Derrick- Mpumalanga, South Africa

I fully support Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi’s commitment to enhancing Kenya’s financial autonomy. His recent remarks about the indignity of African finance ministers queuing for loans at IMF offices highlight the urgency of strengthening our domestic revenue systems.

Despite securing a Ksh 78 billion loan from the IMF, Mbadi believes that tightening tax collection can enable Kenya to recover over Ksh 400 billion, which can help address current crises and reduce reliance on external borrowing.

Given Mbadi’s affiliation with the ODM party, led by Raila Odinga, a steadfast advocate against corruption, I am confident he will uphold the party’s principles and national interests.

Following Odinga’s guidance, Mbadi should focus on sealing loopholes in revenue collection and procurement.

Raila has repeatedly identified the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and the Procurement Department as the two most corrupt departments in the country.

Mbadi should therefore prioritize conducting thorough lifestyle audits for government officials, starting with those in these departments.

Any unexplained wealth must be prosecuted and reclaimed by the state. This is one effective method of addressing the current odious debt issue.

While at it, the government must plan a carefully crafted strategic communication of these measures to the public to foster positive perceptions. Show us some corrupt bigwigs being arraigned in Milimani law courts, trying to hide their corrupt faces from the glare of the cameras.

Let the Office of the Attorney General, Public Prosecutor, and the Director of Criminal Investigations work together with the judiciary to prepare water-tight cases. Secure three, four, or ten successful prosecutions. Recover some money from these culprits from their assets both locally and abroad, including through public auctions.

Such transparency can inspire confidence among local and international investors, spurring economic growth. Such growth would create jobs and increase tax revenue, supporting further development.

I strongly believe that if Mbadi can implement the anti-corruption strategies championed by Raila Odinga during his tenure as Prime Minister in the coalition government with former President Mwai Kibaki, which contributed to significant economic growth, he can turn Kenya around in a short time.

More importantly, these actions can guide Kenya toward greater self-reliance and prosperity.

Finally, the last laugh as Prof Kindiki is sworn in as Deputy President.

By
-
0
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki taking oath

By Anderson Ojwang

It was only a matter of when and not why, where, what and how for the Professor of Law to assume the office of the Deputy President.
Prof Kithure Kindiki in his acceptance speech after the nomination of Mathira MP Rigathi Gachagua as the running mate to President William Ruto two years ago, capped that God willing, he would soon rightfully sit at the top second powerful seat in the country.
“And I am not also satisfied by the process our party followed in identifying running mate. Secondly, what you have said is true, there was a variety of considerations in this process including opinion polls in which I led. There were also considerations including voting through the electoral college which I also won. However, God willing, we will have an opportunity for me to make it up to you. One day and that day will not be far away,”
After the 2022 victory, at Kindiki’s home backyard, the impeached deputy president after thanking the then internal security cabinet secretary predicted that Moi University alumni would one day land the top seat and finally it came to pass with a bitter taste on Rigathi.
‘I want to thank the Prof, the day the president was searching for a running mate. He observed that I was fully qualified and Prof was equally qualified. There emerged a stalemate. I am a worker, professor is also a worker. I am an honest person, professor is also an honest person. Stalemate, Over 17 hours. He asked us to sit down with the professor. I told the professor, that on age matter, I am older than you. Kindly leave this for me. If we get the leadership, you will get something big. Did it not happen? I want to thank the Professor for stepping down for me. Professor work closely with the president and me and you are still a young man, you will lead,’ Rigathi said.
In his first speech after swearing him, Kindiki said Kenya was the land of possibility and that he was the testament of such a possibility.
“Words may fail me to explain how grateful I am today. I will say I am grateful to the Almighty God. I am grateful to you sir for the honor to serve under you. I have been your political student for 20 years and you have helped me in my political space to grow,” he said.
“Throughout my journey culminating with this moment today, I have come to believe that Kenya is the country of possibility. Your Excellency, for a person like me to stand here today and take oath to the office of the Deputy President. It can only happen in Kenya. I was born in one of the remotest areas in Kenya. I am the most unlikely person but Kenya has made it possible for anybody to become something. Thank you very much and I am honoured,’ he said.
The Deputy President promised to serve the country and the President and swore to be loyal and provide President Ruto with assistance and support he may require and committed to remain faithful.
“Today, I have received the highest honour in my life and I don’t take it for granted. I commit, I will be loyal, faithful and work hard to lighten the burden you carry on your shoulder and make the country a better place,” he said.
The Deputy President thanked the various institutions for making the process a reality saying Kenya’s democracy has matured.
President Ruto said he was proud to witness the swearing of the third deputy president of Kenya under the 2010 constitution.
‘I am proud to witness the swearing-in of the honourable Abraham Kithure Kindiki as the third Deputy President of Kenya under the 2010 constitution. I know him as a dedicated professional committed to his call and a tireless public servant. Abraham is a patriot, nationalist, a preacher of unity and inclusivity which is beyond reproach.’
President Ruto said the new Deputy President was a loyal steward of the bottom-up agenda and for the two decades he has witnessed him succeed in various offices he has held.
“People of Kenya require a patriot. The Constitution is greater than any office and all must submit to the Constitution. I am honoured that he is available and ready to serve as my Deputy. My brother, welcome to the great service of Kenya,’ he said.
President Ruto challenged Kindiki to be the new voice of the government in articulating its development saying for the last two years, it has been lonely.
“I have been the lonely voice in the presidency. Help me speak. We have missed the voice for the last two years. You are eloquent, go out and speak out our government agenda,” he said.
He said his government will support every part of the country and no community will be excluded in its development agenda.
“We are not here to serve our communities, families, and villagers but Kenya. I heard you pledge on that. That is what Kenya expects of you to serve all without any bias or affection,’ he said.
Prime Secretary Musalia Mudavadi said Kindiki was a man of humility, a virtue Kenyans needed most to grow.
“In Kindiki, we see virtue, humility, and simplicity. He doesn’t walk with the air around him. That is the virtue that the nation needs to develop,” he said.

Why the Court Decrees May Stall Operation at the Kisumu County Government

By
-
0

By Anderson Ojwang’

Operations at the county government of Kisumu could halt if urgent interventions are not taken. The Prof Peter Anyang Nyong’o regime is currently facing a cocktail of teething problems and challenges that are grounding operations at Lake City.

From legal tussles with contractors, suppliers, and service providers, arrests and detention of employees, and subsequent incarceration, failure to pay salaries and suppliers have exposed the grim situation at the county government. The recent elevation of Nyong’o as the party leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has not helped stabilize the situation in any way.

Currently, the county government has to pay a Sh 2.3 billion court decree awarded to various contractors, suppliers, and lawyers for services rendered. The county also has a pending bill estimated to be over Sh 700 million.

Recently, Kisumu High Court jailed acting Chief Officer of Finance Mr Martin Okode for five months and a fine of Sh 200,000 for contempt and disobeying court. Okode spent six days at Kodiaga Maximum Prison. Last Tuesday, there was drama at the law courts when Lady Justice Mwanaisha Sharif suspended a two-month jail sentence for Kisumu County Executive Committee Member for Finance Mr George Okong’o. The judge offered Okong’o the option of paying a fine of 250,000 shillings or facing civil jail for contempt of court.

This situation arose after Okong’o and his chief officer for finance, Martin Okode, allegedly failed to comply with court orders regarding claims from a contractor owed 22 million shillings for completed work. The contractor – Majock had sought the court’s assistance to compel the county government to settle the outstanding dues.

The judge’s decision came after the Finance Executive failed to honour the court summons, prompting a demand for their lawyers to produce them in court. Earlier, the ruling was set at noon but was pushed forward multiple times, leading to significant delays.

To avoid police re-arresting Okong’o, youths shielded and rushed him to the Governor’s office for safety. The push and pull by the youths and the police officers led to the destruction of the door to the governor’s office and other property within the town hall.

In a move to allay fears, Deputy Governor Dr Mathews Owili stated that the county government was doing everything possible to ensure that the employees were fully protected and that the administration shall ensure that the incident was the first and the last such tragedy to face a public servant in the county.

“The County Government unreservedly and sincerely takes this opportunity to apologize to the family of the Acting Chief Officer-Finance Mr. Martin Okode Opiyo for his incarceration over the matter. No government officer should suffer such indignity and punishment in the performance of his official duties, ” he said.

Dr Owili assured all parties and the nation that it remains committed to the rule of law and constitutionalism, encouraging creditors to pursue alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to facilitate the amicable resolution of some issues while keeping faith in the judicial process.

Acting City Manager Mr Abala Wanga emphasized the government’s advocacy for the rule of law where justice and fairness are applied to all persons and institutions. He stated, “We have always accepted the court rulings and we work with all the government arms. We appeal to the courts to look at both sides of the coin to ensure that all parties get justice.”

Chief Public Communication Officer Mr John Oywa mentioned that the county government will continue to meet its financial obligations but noted that the decrees are a potential danger to all 47 counties. He stated, “The decrees are mainly arising from works and supplies done or presumed to have been done to the defunct Local Authorities. Some of the decrees are too costly. These stringent budgets and erratic disbursement of money from the exchequer have made it difficult to pay some of these huge debts dating back over ten years. It is high time the IGTRC came in to save the County Governments to validate these debts. These debts should be investigated.”

Regarding salaries, Oywa confirmed that the government has released salaries for September and the county cannot ground to a halt.

President Ruto Backs Raila Odinga for AU Chair, Calls for Comprehensive African Union Reform and Peace Initiatives at COMESA Summit

By
-
0

Bujumbura, Burundi — In a powerful address at the COMESA Summit in Burundi, Kenyan President William Ruto endorsed Raila Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship while advocating for far-reaching reforms to strengthen the African Union (AU). Ruto outlined a vision for a streamlined and accountable AU with a full-time Pan-African Parliament to represent the continent’s one billion people, enhance governance, and increase the union’s responsiveness.

A strong advocate for peace, President Ruto also reiterated his commitment to “silencing the guns” across Africa, calling for collaborative efforts to address conflicts that continue to destabilise regions and hinder progress. He urged African leaders to prioritize peace and stability, highlighting that a secure environment is crucial for the AU’s development agenda.

Ruto called on heads of state to take a direct role in AU decision-making, asserting that delegating major decisions to junior officials often led to bureaucratic delays. “As heads of state, we must take responsibility for critical decisions. By reducing delegation to junior officials, we can eliminate red tape and ensure urgent matters are handled swiftly,” he stated.

Ruto further proposed empowering the Pan-African Parliament to hold the AUC accountable, granting it the authority to approve commissioner appointments and review budgets. He envisioned a full-time parliament that would oversee AU operations on behalf of Africa’s citizens, ensuring that decisions align with the continent’s aspirations for unity, transparency, and stability.

Expressing confidence in Odinga’s leadership, Ruto said, “Raila Odinga brings the experience and commitment needed to drive our continent toward greater accountability, peace, and unity. With his leadership, the AU can become a body that truly represents and advances the aspirations of all Africans.“

President Ruto’s endorsement, combined with his vision of a more effective and accountable AU, resonated widely at the summit. His calls for a full-time parliament, stronger oversight, and a continent free from conflict signal a potential turning point for the AU, paving the way for a more stable, transparent, and representative African Union.

—  

The author is a political analyst and commentator on Kenyan politics and a 2022 Senate Candidate for Migori County

Facebook X Instagram TikTok LinkedIn 

@BillyMijungu

#Forward #TusongeMbele

Homa Bay Court stops leasing of the troubled Kigoto Maize Milling plant

By
-
0
Kigoto maize millers

By Team

Trouble is far from over for the paralyzed Kigoti Maize Mill after a Homa Bay Magistrate Court stopped the proposed leasing of the facility to a new investor.

The County Government of Homa Bay through an advertisement in an open national tender had called for expression of interest for leasing, managing, and operating the Kigoto Maize Milling plant.

In the advert, the County Government of Homa Bay, through the Department of Trade, Industry, Tourism, Investments, Co-Operatives Development & Marketing had invited eligible bidders for the following tender.

 “TENDER NUMBER – HBC/TITICDM/EOI/001/2024-2025 FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (EOI) FOR LEASING, MANAGING AND OPERATING THE KIGOTO MAIZE MILLING PLANT should be deposited in the TENDER BOX situated at the entrance of New Governor’s office block not later than October 30, 2024, at 11:00 am EAT. Large documents that cannot fit in the tender box shall be registered at the office of the Director Procurement and Supplies Management located in the basement of the Governor’s new office block,” the Advert read in parts.

In a case filed by Ndiri Feeds against the County Government of Homa Bay before Chief Magistrate C. A. S Mutai certified the petition by Ndiri Feeds through its lawyer Mr. Maosa advocates as urgent.

“ The Application dated 28th  October 2024, be and is hereby certified as urgent and that an order be and is hereby issued staying the proposed leasing, managing and operating of the defendant/ respondent plant herein as per the Tender Notice which closes on the 3oth October 2024 at 11.00 am pending hearing and determination of this application,” read the order in parts.

Chief Magistrate Mutai said the application be served for an inter-partes hearing on the 7tH of November 2024.

The Kigoto Maize Milling plant has been in the media for the wrong reasons and was temporarily closed by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (Kebs) for failing to meet the standards. 

Late last year, Kebs flagged the flour from the mill over the quality after samples that were tested on September 13, 2023, failed to meet the required standards. 

A report from KBS to the county government read in parts “These are major non-compliance affecting the performance of the product, health, and safety of the consumers. You shall take correction and corrective measures immediately.”

The letter that was signed by Mr Benard Sindani Regional Manager for Kebs Lake Region ordered for immediate recall of the batch that was already dispatched to the market.

Kigoto Maize Mill is facing a hurdle from a contractor who is demanding Sh 6 million. Similarly, some farmers who had supplied maize to the plant were also not paid.

The contractor, Ndiri Feeds had accused the county government of failing to meet its side of the bargain and instead resorted to playing politics over payment.

The plant, which was officially opened by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has been limping and has faced a myriad of problems that have paralyzed its operations.

Raila during the launch praised Governor Gladys Wanga for spearheading an economic agenda for the region through the project.

But the mill has failed to crush and the product christened Mokwa has failed to hit the shelves of the supermarkets and shops in the area and nationally.

Kenya’s Foreign Policy Review to Boost Diplomatic Engagements; says Mudavadi

By
-
0
Mudavadi Kenya foreign policy

Kenya’s Foreign Policy Review

By Correspondent in Bujumbura, Burundi.

30 October 2024

Kenya is undertaking a comprehensive review of the country’s foreign policy in a move to reshape Kenya’s role on the global stage.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, has said that the initiative includes the preparation of a sessional paper for Parliament aimed at clarifying Kenya’s foreign policy and addressing the Ministry’s budgetary needs.

Speaking when he visited the Kenyan Embassy in Bujumbura, Burundi, Mudavadi also Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, stressed the importance of engaging Parliament, which allocates resources.

He noted that misconceptions about Kenya’s foreign policy exist, and the sessional paper would correct them and help advocate for a budget that reflects the Ministry’s requirements, including the welfare of Kenyans working in diplomatic missions.

“Through our interactions with Parliament, we’ve noticed several misconceptions about Kenya’s foreign policy. This sessional paper will correct those misunderstandings and help advocate for a budget that reflects the Ministry’s needs, including the welfare of Kenyans working in diplomatic missions,” Mudavadi said.

PCS also addressed the public perception that working in foreign missions is easy. Mudavadi stressed the challenges faced by embassy staff and their crucial role in advancing Kenya’s foreign interests.

Mudavadi highlighted concerns raised by Kenyan youth during recent protests, especially about the President’s frequent travels. He explained that diplomatic engagements are essential for economic development, noting that countries that prioritize diplomacy enjoy benefits such as increased foreign investments and stronger international relations.

The sessional paper, once presented in Parliament, is expected to create a clearer understanding of Kenya’s foreign engagements and secure additional resources to boost the country’s diplomatic presence globally.

Mudavadi was accompanied by PS for Trade Alfred K’Ombudo and PS for Tourism John Ololtuaa. PS K’Ombudo emphasized the need to deploy Kenya’s strategic assets more effectively. He stated, “We must enhance our bilateral and multilateral support to ensure that Kenya maximizes its economic potential through international partnerships.”

PS Ololtuaa focused on strengthening the tourism sector through diplomatic ties. He remarked, “By leveraging our relationships with other nations, we can significantly enhance Kenya’s visibility and attract more tourists, contributing to the growth of our economy.”

Mudavadi concluded by emphasizing the need to map areas where Kenya’s expertise is in demand globally. This, he said, would boost Kenya’s international standing and contribute to the country’s economic growth.

Kenya’s first foreign policy was adopted in 2014 and it emphasized five pillars namely peace diplomacy, economic diplomacy, diaspora diplomacy, environmental diplomacy, and cultural diplomacy. These pillars aim to foster regional stability, enhance economic partnerships, promote Kenya’s global influence, and protect the interests of Kenyans abroad. The ongoing review seeks to strengthen these foundational elements and adapt to evolving global challenges.

A New Approach to Road Discipline: Generating Revenue from Road Misuse and Vandals, Stepping Away from Punitive Vehicle Taxes of 2024 Finance Bill.

By
-
0
Billy Mijungu
By Billy Mijungu

Kenya’s pursuit of sustainable revenue streams has reignited debates on the best ways to fund infrastructure and public services. The recent push to tax vehicles, as proposed in the now-withdrawn 2024 Finance Bill, highlighted the limitations of targeting vehicle owners with additional fees. However, the conversation should shift to a different source of revenue that holds the potential to transform road safety and maintenance: enforcing financial penalties on road misuse, vandalism, and destruction of public road resources.

Road accidents claim thousands of lives annually, costing Kenya an estimated 5% of its GDP. Reckless driving, speeding, and negligence are dangerous and come with a significant societal cost, covering medical bills, law enforcement, and lost productivity. Rather than overburdening law-abiding vehicle owners, the government could impose stricter fines on dangerous driving practices. These fines would discourage risky behaviors and contribute directly to the public coffers. Implementing increased penalties for repeat offenders, including steep fines and mandatory re-education programs, would also address this issue. This approach would ensure those responsible for road carnage bear the financial responsibility while reducing the broader societal costs linked to these incidents.

Another underutilized source of revenue lies in addressing road vandalism, which has long plagued the country’s infrastructure. Vandals frequently strip public roads of essential elements like signage, guardrails, and safety lights, all of which are essential for road safety. Repairing these damages places a heavy financial strain on the government, but by implementing substantial fines for those caught in the act, Kenya could protect its roads while also generating revenue. A system of graduated fines for vandalism offenses, accompanied by community service requirements for convicted individuals, would deter potential vandals. This could be complemented by public reporting programs, where citizens assist in identifying those responsible for damage, bolstering accountability and deterrence.

Additionally, deliberate destruction of public road resources, such as smashing pavements or tearing down pedestrian infrastructure, should be met with even stiffer penalties. Charging offenders not only for the cost of repairs but also with additional fines would serve as both a deterrent and a way to fund the maintenance of public infrastructure. Leveraging technology for enforcement is essential, as manual monitoring remains challenging. A nationwide network of traffic cameras, a public reporting app, and a streamlined digital payment system could enable prompt action on fines, prevent evasion, and ensure consistent revenue.

Educating the public on the societal costs of road misuse is equally critical. Awareness campaigns on road safety and public responsibility would help foster a sense of shared accountability, encouraging citizens to adopt safe practices and report violations. These campaigns could make clear the link between vandalism, road safety, and public funds, deterring destructive behavior through both social pressure and financial disincentives.

By adopting these measures, Kenya would achieve a model where those who damage or misuse road resources bear the financial burden, rather than the general vehicle-owning public. The revenues collected could be reinvested into road safety initiatives, improved infrastructure, and public awareness campaigns, creating a cycle of funding that reinforces safety and accountability. This approach would allow Kenya to address its pressing infrastructure needs while fostering a disciplined, responsible road culture. Shifting the financial burden to those who compromise the safety and integrity of the country’s roads represents a more equitable, sustainable alternative to blanket vehicle taxation.

—  

The author is a political analyst and commentator on Kenyan politics and a 2022 Senate Candidate for Migori County

Facebook X Instagram TikTok LinkedIn 

@BillyMijungu

#Forward #TusongeMbele

In Raila’s footstep: Babu Owino growing political teeth

By
-
0
babu owino
By Anderson Ojwang

The recent political attack on Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino by Uganda President Yoweri Museveni was pregnant and poignant.

For many, it passed like the Uganda president’s usual political diatribe. In an actual sense, it marked the birth of a new political generation not only in Kenya but also in East Africa and Africa at large.

Currently, the younger generation is staking claim in the country’s leadership and Babu Owino seems to have found himself among the emerging new crop of Africa’s young leaders.

The Kisumu Boys alumni came from a humble background and could be defying the odds to position himself at the apex of national politics and his stars are shining brighter.

According to Museveni, Babu Owino supports the anti-National Resistance Movement (Uganda’s ruling party) and is a close ally to Ugandan opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu aka Bobi Wine.

“There are some individuals in Raila’s group who I don’t think know what they are doing. I am a consumer of intelligence services…I always see intelligence service reports. There’s a character called Babu. I always see Babu dealing with anti-NRM groups in Uganda,” said Museveni.

Symbolically, Museveni was in Nairobi, State House during the unveiling of immediate former Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Raila Odinga’s candidature for African Union (AU) chair seat.

Raila had earlier declared that he was exiting the local political scene for the AU seat and vacated his party leadership to Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang Nyong’o. The race to inherit his mantle for the Luo community has begun in earnest.

Those who have been mentioned as probable heir apparent to Raila’s throne include Babu Owino, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Cabinet Secretaries John Mbadi and Opiyo Wandayi, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, Rarieda MP Otiende Amolo among others.

But Babu in his response to Museveni was guarded comparing the Ugandan President’s term to his current age, saying “he is like a grandfather to me hence I accords him some modicum of respect”.

“The current President of Uganda Yoweri Museveni came and I don’t want him to lose his vote for Baba, I want him to vote for Baba. I genuinely respect him as my grandfather,” said Owino.

DAP-Kenya Party Leader Eugene Wamalwa, on his part, expressed dismay at the Ugandan President for seemingly beefing with a young politician the age of his grandson like Owino.

“We were very shocked when we heard one of the Heads of State attacks someone who is supposed to be his grandson. Mimi ni Rafiki sana wa mheshimiwa Yoweri Museveni ( I am personally a good friend to President Yoweri Museveni,” he said.

ODM Secretary General Mr. Edwin Sifuna in a statement on X, Sifuna called out Museveni for verbally reprimanding Babu while in Kenya.

“Whatever beef Museveni has with Babu Owino, I strongly object to the manner of his attack on a young Kenyan leader on our own soil,” said Sifuna.  

Apart from ruffling feathers regionally, Babu has also been creating rumbles in local politics where he has become a lone ranger in the current political realignment between ODM and President Ruto’s UDA party and the formation of a broad-based government.

Babu has maintained that he is the chief opposition leader and will continue to fight for the welfare of Kenyans.

During the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in the national assembly he did participate.

A former Nairobi university student leader and political commentator Dr Gedion Majiwa said it was not a walk in the park for Babu to be elected Sonu chairman severally and eventually Embakasi  East MP.

“Babu is a strategist. He knows when to strike and when to lie low. He is a good mobilizer and understands the political dynamics and he has a high survival instinct. He is an orator and has mastered the public and crowd psychology, Give it to him,” he said.

Dr Majiwa said in the current political dispensation Babu will surprise many because he is a go-getter and he is already endearing himself to the masses and the reception is positive which is a plus for him in his political journey.

Dr Majiwa said Babu is a performer and that is why Nairobians hold him high and see him as a potential future governor or any other top seat in the country.

In the recent survey conducted by research firm InfoTrack, Babu was among the top influential personalities in the country. 

Raila was mentioned as Kenya’s most influential figure and has remained the political determinant in the country.

Raila led the survey, with 26 percent of the respondents naming him as the most influential person. President William Ruto, whose government has faced a lot of criticism and opposition, especially this year, came in second, scoring a seven percent mark.

Impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, came third with a six percent score.

Babu tied at five percent with Gen Zs. The MP has always been on the side of the young people in most issues that affect the country and even showed solidarity during the June-July-August demonstrations against the government.

Babu has shown interest in the ODM party leadership after Raila opted out to run for AU chair. 

“The person who should replace Baba will beat Ruto in 2027 and that’s me. I, therefore, call on the Central Management Committee of the ODM Party to consider my strong desire to serve this prominent institution as its Party Leader to bring the rebirth now required to move it to the next level of engagement for the renewal of Kenya and the fundamentals of leadership.“ he said. 

The party gave the interim position to Nyongo who is the current party leader of the party as Raila seeks to be elected  AU chair.

 “Raila has been my political leader, and I respect him deeply. I have worked under him, for him, and with him. He is still my leader. We cannot ignore the impact he has had on Kenya,” he said.

Babu has maintained he has cut his teeth and was capable of giving alternative leadership to the country.

 “Experience does not come with age; it comes with the challenges you have faced. I may be 35 years old, but I have encountered and solved numerous challenges. Others may have lived longer, but they have not faced as many trials,” he said.

Court jails Kisumu Chief Finance officer for contempt over Court decree for five months

By
lom robb
-
0
Finance
By Team

Acting Kisumu Chief Officer of Finance  Mr. Martin Okode Opiyo was jailed for five months and fined  Sh 200,000 for contempt of court.

Advocate Rueben Maua for Majok Company Limited had moved to Kisumu Court for judicial review following the County of Government of Kisumu’s failure to pay the decree the court had awarded the firm.

Justice Shariff Mwanaisha Saidi sentenced the chief officer for contempt and disobeying the court for five months and fined him Sh 200,000.

Okode spent the night at Kisumu Central police cell as a legal team from the county and management moved to appeal the sentence.

Similarly, County Executive Committee Member for Finance and County Secretary are also due for sentencing on Monday for contempt of court.

Recently, drama unfolded at county offices after an advocate moved to execute a court decree over an unpaid certificate due to a contractor.

A Kisumu-based advocate Mr. Okungu stormed the county offices accompanied by two police officers to execute the decree by arresting and committing the county’s chief financial officer (CFO) to a civil jail.

Panic gripped the ever-busy CFO office and the Treasury Department as business was paralyzed at the county headquarters with a section of staff taking off to avoid arrest.

The advocate’s client was seeking Sh 8M inclusive of interest for the court decree for the payment of the certificate to the contract he undertook.

However,  to avert the arrest of the CFO, the county government administration entered into an arrangement with the advocate to pay part payment as it sought other finances to settle the balance.

Already, the Kisumu County Government is yet to pay  Sh 2.3b  to decree holders in the form of contractors’ certificates, advocates fees, and service providers. 

The court gave 40 decree holders authority to execute the order between the months of September to November.

 During the fiscal year, Kisumu County received a total of KES. 10,142,864,470 in revenue, comprising Own Source Revenue, Grants, and sharable revenue, representing 84% of the revenue target set against budget revised estimates of KES. 12,045,283,582.

The Kisumu court recently released a list of pending decrees up for execution and named the various entities owed by the county government including suppliers, contractors legal firms, and traders whose businesses were demolished among others.

A once popular fish-eating point along the Lake Victoria shores whose property was demolished got a court decree for Sh 75M while a consultant firm received a similar amount against the County government of Kisumu and Kisumu City Board for unfilled contract obligation.

A prominent Kisumu lawyer was allowed to undertake decree enforcement for Sh 115,000,000.

A prominent Kisumu-based law firm is seeking Sh 475,000,000 for advocate and client bills of cost.

1...182183184...192Page 183 of 192