Kakamega ODM governor candidate Fernandes Barasa has promised to complete all projects started by incumbent Wycliffe Oparanya, if elected.
The projects include the construction of a milk processing plant in Malava, Madala tea factory in Shinyalu, upgrading of Bukhungu Stadium to international standards and supply of piped water to every household.
The county is in the process of handing over the Kakamega County General Teaching and Referral Hospital, one of the flagship projects, to the national government for completion.
“We cannot gamble with leadership of the county. It requires people with experience, tested and a proven track record," he said on Friday at a campaign rally at Ingabira market in Malava constituency.
Barasa said his government will give 50 per cent of county jobs to women and set aside a fund to give grants to small-scale traders across the county.
His deputy designate, Ayub Savula, said their ticket was premised on development and prosperity, and that Luhyas stand a better chance to receive development in Azimio government than Kenya Kwanza.
Oparanya, ODM Senate candidate Brian Lishenga, Savula, MP Elsie Muhanda, Christopher Aseka and Tindi Mwale addressed the rally.
The governor bid the county staff farewell on Friday to officially join the campaign trail for Azimio One Kenya flagbearer Raila Odinga.
He denied reports by Kenya Kwanza leaders that he was pushing for election of Barasa to cover his mistakes when he served as governor.
“They come here and tell you that Barasa is my nephew. That is a lie. I have nothing to hide," Oparanya said.
Kakamega DAP-K Senate candidate Patrick Butichi announced his withdrawal from the race to support Lishenga, saying he reached the decision after consultations with Oparanya.
“I decided to drop from the race in the interest of more seats for Azimio. I am ready to serve the county in other capacities,” he said.
Aseka asked Luhyas to vote for Raila because of his practical manifesto.
Muhanda, on her part, said it would be a tall order for Luhya leaders in Kenya Kwanza to deliver 70 per cent of Western vote to the formation.
“Luhyas can only get development when they are in government and I can see our brothers on the other side headed to the opposition,” Muhanda said.
(edited by Amol Awuor)
