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Will new majority leader ignite probe into Kihika's government?

Nakuru county assembly building.

Photo credit: BRET SANYA/MTAA WANGU

The ousting of Alex Langat from the majority leader seat, might have ushered in a new era in Nakuru’s political scene.

In the last two years, the County Assembly has been referred to as a “toothless dog” by a section of MCAs, as they saw the majority leader remain silent on issues touching Governor Susan Kihika’s government, the latest one being allegations of procurement of faulty sport equipment and kits, a matter currently being investigated by EACC.

If the mood during the voting in of William Mutai as the new majority leader is anything to go by, then the County is likely to see a more vibrant house.

Mr Mutai hails from Kuresoi South, an area that voted overwhelmingly for Ms Kihika in the 2022 polls.

It is therefore interesting to hear those from the ‘Governor’s stronghold’ agitating for more oversight and accountability as opposed to offering blind support as has been witnessed in the past.

Perhaps this change of heart is a confirmation of the whispers that have been going around, telling of Kuresoi’s dissatisfaction with what they term ‘being neglected’.

This agitation began when the Governor was constituting her cabinet. It was expected that she would give more positions to those from Kuresoi North, South and Molo sub counties.

The disgruntled voices have now turned their focus on development projects, saying they have been overlooked in comparison to other sub counties enjoying the Governor’s attention.

Laban Omusundi a civil rights activist, first commends the County Assembly for taking the bold step in ousting the former majority leader, for not performing his function as it was required of him.

“In my view, the new majority leader who hails from Kuresoi South, an area that has been neglected in terms of development will inform the Executive appropriately in matters development and distribution of resources across the county,” he says.

The civil right activist adds, “We cannot assume the fact that in the recent past there has been a luke warm reception from the residents towards the governor.”

On whether this move will affect Ms Kihika’s 2027 gubernatorial prospects, Mr Musindi says, “It is still too early to tell. The Governor should focus on working for the people since we need to see tangible development in all areas of Nakuru County”.

William Mutai was voted in as the new majority leader on September, 11.