Order by Vihiga Governor Moses Akaranga to hang portrait faulted
Vihiga Governor Moses Akaranga (right) launches the county flag on February 23, 2015. The Sh4.5 billion Vihiga County budget was approved on June 30, 2015 amid allegations of misuse of Sh900 million meant for ward development projects last year. PHOTO | ISAAC WALE |
What you need to know:
- County boss accused of abuse of office.
- Akaranga says the directive is a legal requirement and not his creation
A directive by Vihiga Governor Moses Akaranga to have his portrait hung in all business premises has been sharply criticised.
Mr Akaranga ordered all traders to display his portrait in their premises or pay a Sh150,000 fine when he was unveiling the county flag two weeks ago.
But Vihiga MP Yusuf Chanzu and Mr Vincent Indeche, a businessman, on Friday accused the governor of abuse of office saying the order was uncalled for.
“Why should someone force people to buy his portrait? It is not a must that we display the president’s photo. Portraits are just displayed as a sign of respect. Locals should challenge such directives,” said Mr Chanzu.
Mr Indeche said the order would eat in to the profits of businesses.
“Are we going to pay for business licences and permits or we are going to look for money to buy portraits or pay fines?” he posed.
A single portrait is expected to cost Sh1,000 or Sh2,000 depending on the size.
But Mr Akaranga on Friday said the directive was a legal requirement and not his creation.
“Our people must learn to read and understand things by themselves. Do not wait for someone to tell you something then you say you were told,” said Mr Akaranga.
