Trans Nzoia governor seeks elders help after MP remarks

Trans Nzoia Governor Patrick Khaemba has called on elders from the Bukusu community to stop Kiminini Member of Parliament Chris Wamalwa from portraying him as corrupt and incompetent.

Governor Khaemba said the legislator has mounted a campaign to discredit his personality and urged the elders to intervene.

“The elders must warn this MP against his spirited fight to portray me as corrupt and a poor performer. He must be told to focus on his constitutional mandate,” said the governor.

Mr Wamalwa has questioned the ongoing construction at the county teaching and referral hospital, which was acquired from a private developer in 2014 at a cost of Sh165 million.

The lawmaker accused the county government of overburdening taxpayers with the purchase of the 166-bed facility at an exorbitant price.

He wants the funds to be refunded and channelled toward other projects.

“The governor must answer the critical audit questions that are being raised by various agencies instead of seeking … solace from the elders. I will keep playing my role,” he said in response.

Saboti MP David Wafula said it was wrong for the governor to ask for help from the elders on accountability issues when the electorate is interested in action against graft.

“We all respect the role of elders, but we should not use them to silence leaders when they play their oversight role since the county assembly has failed on its role,” said Mr Wafula.