Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has defended his association with President William Ruto.
The governor said that although he was elected on ODM ticket, he will continue collaborating with the national government to achieve development.
Barasa spoke two days after hosting ODM leader Raila Odinga who is on a countrywide tour to popularise the party.
The Azimio chief has asked all elected leaders to refrain from early campaigns and focus on service delivery and development.
The governor, during fundraiser in aid of Sivillie church in Navakholo subcounty, said that revival of Mumias Sugar Company is one of the initiatives that requires close collaboration with the national government as it requires involvement of the exchequer.
"Farmers will henceforth be paid one week after delivery of their cane. President Ruto has committed to support cane development and supply of subsidised fertilisers. We will continue working together on matters development for the benefit of our people" Barasa said.
The county boss who was recently ranked among the best performing nationally has outlined a pipeline of projects geared towards equitable development across Kenya's largest rural county.
He said that the county will partner with national government in supporting cane development to meet the demands of local millers.
Mumias, alongside Butali, West Kenya and Nzoia sugar companies resumed cane crushing on Friday after a four-month moratorium by the government through the Agriculture and Food Authority.
The suspension of sugar milling in June was occasioned by an acute shortage of raw materials and was meant to allow for cane maturity.
Barasa said that the county and national government are interdependent and should therefore work together in the interest of Kenyans.
