Dennis Avokoywa/ Seliphar Musungu, Kakamega
The newly sworn in Kakamega county Mcas on September 21, voted in James Namatsi as their new county speaker taking over from Morris Buluma who served as the speaker of the county assembly since the start of devolution.
A total of 89 Mcas took part in the elections.
Namatsi was voted in as the new speaker in the first round after garnering 60 votes.
James Wanzala Namatsi, the second Speaker of Kakamega County Assembly with former speaker Morris Buluma /PHOTO County splash news The seat was being eyed by 10 candidates including ex shinyalu mp Justus Kizito, former Kakamega senatorial candidate Brian Lishenga who were dismissed on allegations of failing to meet the required standards before vying for the sit.
The 3 candidates who made it to the finals were James Namatsi, Kennedy Kilwake and Morris Buluma who garnered 60, 26 and 3 votes respectively.
In his acceptance speech, Namatsi vowed to closely work with the MCA’s for the well-being of the people.
"I will closely work with the entire leadership to ensure our resources are well managed to the advantage of our people," He said.
He however called out to the MCA’s to put aside their political differences and concentrate on what they were entrusted to do.
“Let’s put our hands together to embrace a positive change,” He added.
Namatsi resigned as a lawyer before eyeing for the seat.
He also promised to harmonize the house to avoid wrangles in the assembly.
Bernard Shitiabai was elected as the deputy speaker after garnering 61.
Shitiabai who is Isukha West Member of Parliament emerged the winner from his close opponent who garnered 27 votes.
