Homa Bay Deputy Governor Hamilton Orata has started official campaigns for the gubernatorial race, saying he will transform the county should he elected.
Orata started his campaigns by assigning 100 women from various parts of the county to serve as his ambassadors in different parts of the county.
He also held a meeting with women from Kasipul constituency in a hotel in the area.
“I am not looking for supporters but I am looking for stakeholders who will help me transform Homa Bay. Residents should support my candidacy because of experience,” Orata said.
The Deputy Governor said his campaigns will be done peacefully without insulting his opponents.
Addressing the women on Saturday, Orata pledged to implement incomplete development projects his boss Governor Cyprian Awiti started and ensure they improve the lives of the people.
He said he already has knowledge and experience on how to implement devolution in a better way.
“I have served as a Deputy Governor for nine years and this has given me enough experience in understanding devolution. Among my competitors, I am the one who understands what should be done to the people,” Orata said.
He promised to empower women and youth to enable them earn a living. He further added that he would be starting a revolving funds which will be used by women to operate business.
“Women are the engines of households because they are the people who play a major role in feeding families. Therefore, my leadership must ensure women are empowered to do business,” Orata said.
He said failure by the county government should not be seen as a failure by the administration of Governor Cyprian Awiti, adding that structures were being put in place.
“As we look at the negative side of the incomplete projects of the county, let us also think of success of the county such as enhancing early childhood education, among others,” he added.
Residents were also urged to register as voters in large numbers.
The women led by Pamela Juma said they will campaign for Orata at the grassroots on condition that he will address their problems.
“Lack of streetlights in our markets force us to close business early. Orata has promised to address the problem and we will support him,” Juma said.
Orata is among 10 aspirants who are eyeing the governor seat.
(edited by Amol Awuor)
