Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo is facing growing pressure from West Mugirango MP Steve Mogaka, who has demanded accountability for the billions of shillings allocated to the county over the last five years.
Mogaka, speaking at Parliament Buildings in Nairobi, raised concerns about the state of development in the county, asserting that there is little to show for the substantial funds disbursed.
The lawmaker further accused Governor Nyaribo of fueling the political divisions currently being witnessed in the Nyamira County Assembly.
According to Mogaka, the governor has been interfering with the legislative arm of the county government instead of focusing on his executive mandate. He called on Nyaribo to distance himself from the County Assembly wrangles, which have seen the Assembly split into two rival factions, each claiming to have a legitimate Speaker.
Mogaka reminded the governor that he ascended to power following the death of former Governor John Nyagarama in December 2020. Despite getting a fresh mandate in the August 2022 General Election, the MP argued that Nyaribo’s tenure has been marked by minimal progress, leaving residents disillusioned with his leadership.
“The people of Nyamira gave him a chance to serve again, but unfortunately, there is very little to show in terms of development. The least we expect from Governor Nyaribo is for him to focus on service delivery and not to entangle himself in the County Assembly battles,” said Mogaka.
The MP accused the governor of neglecting his responsibilities and instead engaging in political schemes that have deepened the divisions in the County Assembly. He warned that if the situation persists, Nyamira residents will make their dissatisfaction known during the 2027 General Election.
“Nyamira residents are watching. Those who have failed to deliver on their mandate will be held accountable in 2027,” Mogaka declared.
Mogaka urged Governor Nyaribo to work closely with other elected leaders to resolve the County Assembly impasse. He emphasized the importance of unity in leadership, stating that the ongoing wrangles have stalled crucial legislative and development agendas.
The division in the County Assembly, sparked by the controversial ouster of the Speaker, has left the county in a state of uncertainty, with both factions claiming legitimacy.
“If the governor truly has the interests of Nyamira at heart, he should bring all leaders together and find a solution to the political crisis in the County Assembly. He must ensure that governance runs smoothly for the benefit of the people,” Mogaka added.
The MP’s remarks come at a time when many counties across Kenya are facing scrutiny over the management of public funds and service delivery. Nyamira County, in particular, has been criticized for slow development and political instability, factors that could impact its growth trajectory.
Mogaka’s call for accountability underscores the growing demand for transparency in county governments. As the 2027 General Election approaches, local leaders will likely face increased pressure to demonstrate tangible development and effective governance.
The fate of Governor Nyaribo’s administration may depend on his ability to address these concerns and foster unity among leaders in Nyamira County.
