By Reuben Olita -Busiaย
Residents of Angurai South Ward will determine the name of a proposed new administrative division, Teso North Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Solomon Kitai has announced.
Speaking during the 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations at Aboloi Primary School grounds on Friday, Kitai said a memorandum submitted by residents will be subjected to public participation as required by law. He noted that once the community reaches consensus, he will have no option but to approve the creation of the new division.
The proposed unit will raise the number of divisions carved from the former Angurai Division to threeโChangara, Angurai, and the forthcoming new division.
Addressing the public after reading President William Rutoโs speech, Kitai assured village elders that the government values their contribution, highlighting the Presidentโs directive that elders will receive a KSh3,000 monthly stipend beginning June 2026.
Teso North Sub-County Administrator Silas Juma reaffirmed the county governmentโs commitment to strengthening revenue collection by combating corruption and internal theft. He disclosed that all revenue officers had been sent on compulsory leave and replaced temporarily by village administrators to ensure uninterrupted service delivery.
Juma added that the countyโs revenue collection machines had been taken for forensic audit following a sharp decline in own-source revenue. He warned that officers found culpable would face disciplinary action after investigations and subsequent vetting by the County Public Service Board.
Meanwhile, former Busia County Woman Representative Florence Mutua sharply criticised a section of political leadersโincluding Members of the County Assemblyโfor neglecting their oversight role. Mutua, who served from 2013 to 2022, said MCAs had failed the electorate at a time when health facilities across the county are grappling with inadequate equipment.
She accused some MCAs of being โcluelessโ about county affairs, a remark that sparked loud chants from the crowd. Mutua lamented that residents still seek treatment in Bungoma County despite having a hospital in Busia. She also questioned why the Otuoma administration has not fully equipped Amukura Level 4 Hospital, which was constructed during former Governor Sospeter Ojaamongโs tenure.
Mutua, the former ODM Deputy Secretary General, thanked President Ruto for appointing her to the board of Mama Ngina University, saying the appointment would strengthen Busiaโs national presence and enhance opportunities in education, research, and innovation. She pledged to advocate for inclusive and equitable development across the country.
Bukhayo North/Walatsi MCA Gardy Jakaa commended the DCC for maintaining peace and security in the region.
Teso North Probation Officer Joyce Wambui raised concern over the lack of a departmental vehicle, which she said hampers her ability to conduct official duties across Teso North, Teso South, and Teso Central. She appealed to political leaders for support.
Earlier, residents led by Charles Opagalla urged Teso North Sub-County Police Commander Charles Chepkonga to provide office space and a vehicle for Aboloi Police Post. Chepkonga said the sub-county security team would pool available resources and affirmed that the post would soon be upgraded to a police station, with additional officers deployed.
He assured residents of heightened security throughout the festive season and during upcoming events such as Teso Night and the cultural festival. He urged the public to report any suspicious individuals.
Speaking on behalf of persons with disabilities, Mrs. Leah Immo encouraged parents not to hide children and adults living with disabilities but instead register them so that government support can be properly planned. She urged government institutions to ensure accessibility in public buildings and to include PWDs in decision-making committees, citing ongoing exclusion.
The ceremony was attended by representatives from the Kenya National Union of Teachers, the Iteso Cultural Union, and Teso North traders, among others.
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