The electorate ought to deeply interrogate what they want so that this time round they don't fall trap as before

Bungoma County, nestled in the western region of Kenya, is home to nine vibrant constituencies: Tongaren, Bumula, Sirisia, Webuye West, Webuye East, Kimilili, Kabuchai, and Kanduyi. These constituencies form the political and social fabric of the county, contributing to its unique identity and challenges. As Bungoma faces another election cycle, there is a growing debate about who should be the next governor. With the people already beginning to align with various political camps, it is crucial to reflect on the performance of the current leadership before jumping onto political bandwagons that may not serve the county’s best interests.

The upcoming gubernatorial race has sparked conversations across the county’s constituencies. From the rural farmlands of Tongaren to the bustling streets of Kanduyi, voters seem undecided on who will best lead them into the future. However, a worrying trend is emerging: many are simply following political waves and public sentiments without critically assessing the leadership qualities and track records of the potential candidates. This is the very same trap that has ensnared the nation in the past, resulting in the election of individuals whose qualifications, vision, and integrity did not match the demands of their offices.

The country is currently grappling with underdevelopment in several regions, and political witch-hunting is rampant. Some leaders, as various politicians have admitted, are mere puppets in the hands of powerful individuals who control them like herds of cattle. This has led to a situation where real issues affecting the people, such as infrastructure, healthcare, education, and job creation, are relegated to the background while political battles and self-serving interests take center stage.

Bungoma County, with its nine constituencies, has not been spared from these political shortcomings. Many residents feel left behind in terms of development, especially when compared to other counties that have made significant strides in infrastructure, health, and education. The people of Bungoma deserve better, and it is time to make informed decisions that will lead to progress, not stagnation. As we head into the next election, it is crucial for the electorate to take a step back and critically evaluate what the current leadership has accomplished—or failed to accomplish.

Before electing a new governor, the people of Bungoma must scrutinize the track record of the incumbent administration. What have they done for the county? Has there been significant progress in addressing the pressing needs of the people, or has the leadership been mired in political battles and scandals? These are the questions that should guide the electorate as they contemplate their choices. It is essential to resist the temptation to follow political waves blindly. History has shown that such waves often result in the election of leaders who lack the vision, competence, and integrity to move the county forward.

Kenyan politics, unfortunately, has deteriorated over the years. The idea of leadership has been reduced to a game of loyalty, where individuals follow the orders of their political godfathers rather than focusing on the needs of the people. This has led to widespread disillusionment among the electorate, who feel that they are not getting the representation and services they deserve. Bungoma County is no exception, and its residents must be wary of falling into the same trap again.

One of the key figures who stands out in this context is Hon. Mukhisa Kituyi. As a seasoned politician and diplomat, Kituyi has built a reputation as a leader who can deliver. His track record speaks for itself, and unlike many other politicians, he has managed to steer clear of the corruption scandals that plague Kenya’s political landscape. Kituyi is one of the few leaders in Kenya with both the international and local experience needed to govern effectively. He has served as the Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), a role in which he demonstrated his ability to manage complex institutions and deliver results. His tenure at UNCTAD earned him respect globally, and his leadership skills are undisputed.

If given a chance to govern Bungoma County, Kituyi could bring a fresh perspective, informed by his international experience and his deep understanding of local challenges. His integrity, vision, and commitment to development make him a standout candidate. He is not tainted by the corruption that has hindered progress in many parts of the country, and his focus on governance, rather than political expediency, is exactly what Bungoma needs at this critical juncture.

What Bungoma needs now is a leader who can unite the county’s diverse constituencies and work toward common goals. A leader who prioritizes development, addresses the county’s economic challenges, and ensures that resources are distributed equitably. Hon. Mukhisa Kituyi, with his extensive experience and clean record, presents a viable option for the people of Bungoma.

It is time for the electorate to move beyond politics as usual. Bungoma cannot afford another five years of stagnation, political infighting, and underdevelopment. The residents of Tongaren, Bumula, Sirisia, Webuye West, Webuye East, Kimilili, Kabuchai, and Kanduyi should carefully consider their choices and elect leaders who are genuinely committed to progress. By focusing on competence, integrity, and a proven track record, the people of Bungoma can ensure that their county moves forward and achieves the development it so desperately needs.