By Reuben Olita, Busia
Busia gubernatorial hopeful, Engineer Vincent Esyepet Sidai, has boldly declared that he is the only candidate capable of unseating Governor Dr. Paul Otuoma in the 2027 general election.
Speaking over the weekend during the burial service of Pamela Isale Oyese, fondly known as Mama Clean, at St Pius Primary and Comprehensive School, Sidai urged Busia residents to back his bid, saying his leadership will unite the county’s diverse communities.
“I have a strong working relationship with Busia County Assembly Speaker Fredrick Odilo. We are committed to maintaining that unity until it yields results. The opposition should join forces with us instead of working in isolation,” said Sidai.
“Apende asipende, tutamtoa tukishirikiana jinsi tulivyo (Like it or not, we shall unseat him if we remain united),” he declared to cheers from the crowd.
Sidai emphasized the need for inclusivity and cohesion among all communities in Busia, citing public dissatisfaction across the board. “I want to walk this journey with you and unite all clans in the spirit of the national government’s unity agenda,” he added.
In a measured response, Speaker Fredrick Odilo acknowledged the rising political temperatures but called for respect and tolerance. “From Changara to Osieko, we must appreciate the diversity of our people. Let us embrace unity,” he said.
Odilo also wished Sidai success in his gubernatorial ambitions. “You said you’re not tired after resigning from your job at Kenya Ports Authority. Go ahead and walk the journey, and I’ll do the same. When the time comes, we’ll talk and things will fall into place.”
Deputy Speaker Ronald Ochalu commended Odilo’s leadership, citing his role in securing KSh25 million for Malaba Municipality. He pledged further support, including pushing for the opening of a municipal account.
“Malaba town is dirty. The Assembly has approved funds for purchasing a tractor for garbage collection and another KSh 10 million for street lighting,” Ochalu said, adding that a mast light has already been installed at Ikapolok Market.
Amukura West MCA Dr. Bonface Erute decried the Executive’s failure to implement Assembly-approved projects. He, however, welcomed President William Ruto’s proposed dual carriageway along the Bungoma–Malaba Road.
Malaba South MCA Bonface Mamai echoed the call for full implementation of development projects, saying MCAs will continue monitoring progress.
Fr. Michael Wanyonyi of Malaba Catholic Parish called on leaders to empower communities by opening SACCOs and mobilizing up to KSh 20 million for youth and women-focused development initiatives.
The late Mama Pamela, aged 65, was the mother of Busia County Assembly internal auditor Benedictus Oese, Stella Auja (Department of Health), and Brigit Ajaa (Kenya National Bureau of Statistics).
