Lusaka accused of using public cash in vote hunt

Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka has asked aspirants in the senate by-election not to involve him in their campaigns. PHOTO/FILE 

In Summary

• Mr Majimbo asked the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission and public to closely monitor the activities of Mr Lusaka as he was “contravening the Elections Act”.
• Mr Lusaka had, however, earlier stated that he would remain neutral in the contest and promised to work with whoever Bungoma residents elect senator.

By ERICK NGOBILO
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Bungoma county representatives have accused Governor Kenneth Lusaka of using public resources to drum up support for New Ford Kenya candidate Musikari Kombo.

Speaking on behalf of the county representatives, assembly Majority Leader Majimbo Okumu said the governor has been moving around in the company of Mr Kombo claiming to be launching development projects.

“The governor was in Tulumba accompanied by Mr Kombo and former minister Eugene Wamalwa, where he launched the construction of a mausoleum and a modern hotel in memory of paramount chief Sudi Namachanja.

“We want the governor to disclose the source of funding for the project since there is no allocation in the current budget,” said Mr Okumu in a statement.

Mr Okumu further demanded an explanation from the office of the governor on whether the event was a campaign rally or an official county function.

The county representatives further claimed that Mr Lusaka had lined up a series of activities from today up to Wednesday to woo voters for Mr Kombo.

Mr Majimbo asked the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission and public to closely monitor the activities of Mr Lusaka as he was “contravening the Elections Act”.

“The law is clear that no public funds should be used in campaigns yet Mr Lusaka has been using official government cars and money for such activities,” said Mr Okumu.

The more than 40 county representatives said Mr Lusaka’s decision to back Mr Kombo in the senate contest has divided the county into two.

Mr Lusaka had, however, earlier stated that he would remain neutral in the contest and promised to work with whoever Bungoma residents elect senator.

Since the county boss is a custodian of public resources, said Mr Okumu, he should not take political sides in the contest.

He said the County Assembly Public Accounts Committee will soon launch an investigation to ascertain how much money has been misused.