Wetang’ula, Lusaka tear into each other as Bungoma politics heat up
Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka (left) and Senator Moses Wetang’ula. The two are fighting for control of votes in western Kenya. PHOTO | TITUS OTEBA | NATION MEDIA GROUP
What you need to know:
- Mr Wetang'ula is fronting a businessman, Mr Wycliffe Wangamati, to unseat Governor Lusaka.
- Mr Lusaka has pledged to politically deal with Senator Wetang'ula for insulting him during public meetings.
- He told Mr Wetang'ula to accept that he is the unpopular candidate in Nasa.
- Governor Lusaka is the Jubilee Party point-man in Western region.
As the August 8 general election fast approaches, Bungoma politics continue to take shape with top leaders from the county tearing into each other.
The relationship between Governor Ken Lusaka and Senator Moses Wetang’ula continues to take a murkier path.
Last week, while addressing residents of Kabula in Bumula Constituency, Mr Wetang’ula accused Governor Lusaka of running down the county government, allegedly embezzling county resources, employing unqualified staff and perpetuating corruption.
“You have seen how he bought 10 expensive wheelbarrows at the cost of Sh1.1 million. He can’t account for the money from the [national] government because of lack of visible projects. That is the reason we need change and change should be seen by unseating him this August,” said Mr Wetang’ula.
The Ford Kenya party leader is fronting a businessman, Mr Wycliffe Wangamati, to unseat Mr Lusaka, something that has not gone down well with the governor.
DEAL WITH WETANG'ULA
Mr Lusaka has pledged to politically deal with Senator Wetang'ula for insulting him during public meetings.
Addressing journalists in Webuye Tuesday, Mr Lusaka accused Mr Wetang'ula of hurling unprintable insults at him.
"I won't [allow] my CV to be tainted by a person who has got no political future.
“He is struggling to find space [in Nasa] but he can't convince all residents to support his presidential bid. Why should he concentrate on frustrating me? posed Mr Lusaka.
Mr Lusaka said the argument on the wheelbarrow saga will not hold water as it has been investigated by the anti-corruption commission and stern action taken against officers who were involved.
Governor Lusaka, who is the Jubilee Party point-man in Western region, asked the Bungoma Senator to accept that he is the unpopular candidate among the Nasa principals.
“Wetang’ula should not blame the pollsters like Infotrak but he should accept that he is unpopular and can’t beat his colleagues. If he can’t control Bungoma County, can he marshal support in the entire country?” asked Mr Lusaka.
