Speaker race intense as Mutai aims to retain seat

The race for speaker of Bomet county assembly is in top gear as at least seven candidates covet the seat.

Incumbent speaker Nelson Mutai occupied the seat for two years and hopes to retain it.

He faces Bomet UDA coordinator Stephen Mutai, activist Kiprotich Bii Samoei, Sportpesa Megajackpot winner Cosmas Korir, former Kipsonoi MCA Weldon Kirui, lawyers Robinson Kigen and Sigei arap Bett.

The incumbent and UDA coordinator are touted as favorites for the race but activist Samoei has mounted a serious challenge.

The speaker is the head of the legislative arm of the county government and the election of an assembly speaker is always the first business once MCAs are sworn in.

Swearing-in expected next week.

Regional balance in distribution of leadership positions is an issue as Konoin and Bomet Central constituencies are laying claim to the position. No candidate from either was elected to top positions.

In an interview, Mutai expressed confidence that he will be reeelected.

“We have tried to build a mini-chamber that is one of the best as we await completion of the main chamber," he said.

It will have offices for every MCA, secretary, equipment and committee rooms, Mutai said.

He said he wants to assist new MCAs to effectively oversight the county executive and safeguard county resources. Residents need value for their money, he said.

Mutai said during his term, the assembly passed bills providing for county assistance to less privileged people.

“I am happy because Governor Hillary Barchok was re-elected. We have been working closely and ensuring bills assist the common mwananchi and improve services for everyone," he said.

In 2021, Mutai was named Kenya's most outstanding speaker during the National County Gala Awards in Mombasa.

The award was based on a survey in all 47 counties.

Activist and commentator Samoei is known for his charitable activities. He said he wants to lead a robust third county assembly to deliver on its mandate.

“We will achieve this through improved welfare of MCAs and staff and through capacity building,” he said.

Samoei said the assembly should hire additional clerks to ks who will help Members deliver on their roles with ease.

“The assembly is understaffed and I will ensure we recruit personnel and ensure members deliver on their core mandate of representation and oversight,” Samoei said.

He also promised to ensure that the assembly is independent from the executive.

“I believe the assembly should be independent under the principle of separation of powers. It should not impede the work of the Executive but instead offer checks and balances in good faith,” he said.

Governor Barchok is expected to call the first sitting.

(Edited by V. Graham)