Lower Eastern leaders on Monday launched the construction of a bridge across the killer River Enziu in Kitui.
The river flows across the Nguni-Nuu road in Mwingi where 33 people were killed last year as their bus attempted to cross the swollen river.
The bridge's construction was launched barely two months after the tragedy that claimed lives of those travelling to a wedding.
They drowned after the school bus they were travelling in was swept away by flash floods across the bridge.
On Monday, Mwingi Central MP Gideon Mulyungi said the construction of the bridge will cost Sh570 million and is expected to be complete by end of this year.
He urged the contractor to ensure he creates employment for residents during the exercise.
In an event that was attended by several Wiper leaders, politics of Musalia Mudavadi ditching Oka for UDA took center stage.
Wiper leader Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka affirmed that the Oka coalition still remains strong even after the recent move by ANC leader Musalia Mudavadi.
Mudavadi who joined hands with Ruto, is said to have weakened the One Kenya Alliance coalition.
"Our bid remains unchanged, I will be on the ballot," Kalonzo said.
He said that although his co-principal in the Oka coalition, Musalia Mudavadi, was yet to officially leave the coalition, he is aware of the struggles that the western region is undergoing politically.
‘It is painful for me if Wetangula goes a separate way. I want to ask him to reconsider we finish this race together, with a brother I trust and that is Moses Wetangula," Kalonzo said.
He however maintains that it is the right time to take the mantle of leadership of this country and Mudavadi’s exit comes as an added advantage to him.
"The way is very clear now, no more congestion as we head to State House," he said.
The Wiper leader’s remarks were echoed by other local leaders, urging him to stay put in his quest for the presidency.
Mwingi West MP Charles Nguna said the exit of Mudavadi was an act of betrayal, but it paved way for Musyoka.
He said the invitation to the meeting was a setup to ruin Musyoka’s political future.
"What happened on Sunday at the Bomas of Kenya turned out in favour of Kalonzo Musyoka. He was the real earthquake as everyone was left talking about him," Nguna added.
Kitui Woman Rep, Irene Kasalu who supported the remarks said the awaited earthquake was only witnessed when Kalonzo left Musalia’s event midway.
She also added that Kalonzo is not only Ukambani region leader but a national leader.
Other leaders who were in attendance include Kitui Senator Kiio Wambua, former Kitui governor Julius Malombe, a section of MCAs and religious leaders.
(Edited by Bilha Makokha)
