A political storm is brewing in Bungoma County as Governor Ken Lusaka and Sirisia Member of Parliament John Waluke lock horns over governance, development, and corruption allegations.
The escalating war of words has exposed deep divisions between the two leaders, raising political temperatures in the county.
The feud was ignited after Waluke, in a recent interview, questioned Lusaka’s development record and accused his administration of corruption. The remarks triggered a swift and fiery response from the governor, who dismissed Waluke’s claims as baseless and turned the spotlight on the MP’s own controversial past.
Waluke’s Accusations: Development and Corruption Concerns
During the interview, Waluke alleged that Lusaka’s administration has failed to deliver meaningful development since taking office, claiming that major projects remain stalled while public funds are mismanaged. He particularly pointed to concerns over Bungoma’s garbage collection contract, questioning its necessity.
“How can you award a garbage collection tender worth millions when there is no garbage in Bungoma?” Waluke posed.
He also hinted at corruption scandals within the county government, suggesting that key contracts and resources were being channeled into private pockets at the expense of residents.
Lusaka Fires Back: ‘A Convicted Felon Cannot Lecture Me on Corruption’
Governor Lusaka wasted no time in hitting back, branding Waluke a convicted felon who lacks the moral authority to speak on corruption.
“My attention has been drawn to the reckless and laughable utterances by Sirisia MP John Waluke during a recent interview, where he peddled baseless claims of rampant corruption in Bungoma County,” Lusaka said.
The governor dismissed Waluke’s claim about garbage collection, calling it ignorant and out of touch with civic operations.
“One can only wonder whether he was speaking out of sheer ignorance or if he simply lacks the capacity to appreciate basic civic functions. Either way, such absurdity can only be conjured up by a man of his caliber.”
Lusaka further defended his development record, citing improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, and economic empowerment.
“Perhaps the honorable member is suffering from a severe case of selective blindness—because if he took even a cursory look around, he would see the progress we have made. But alas, it seems he prefers to exist in a self-imposed state of oblivion.”
Turning the Spotlight on Waluke’s Legal Troubles
Shifting focus, Lusaka reminded the public of Waluke’s legal troubles, arguing that the MP is in no position to lecture anyone on integrity.
“Now, if there is anyone least qualified to pontificate about corruption, it is Waluke. This is a man whose infamy is well-documented—a convicted felon who defrauded Kenyans of maize meant to feed starving citizens. The irony of a man with such a tainted past lecturing others on integrity is nothing short of comical.”
He also questioned Waluke’s credibility, referencing his military background where he allegedly forged the title of “Major,” and his handling of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).
“The Auditor General recently flagged a staggering Ksh 35 million in fictitious bursary allocations under his watch. If anything, he should focus on clearing his own backyard before attempting to lecture others.”
What This Political Clash Means for Bungoma Residents
The public spat between the two leaders is likely to deepen political divisions in Bungoma, with their supporters taking sides. While such confrontations may energize political debates, they also risk diverting attention from pressing issues that affect residents—such as service delivery, job creation, and economic growth.
Observers argue that both leaders should engage in constructive dialogue rather than personal attacks. Political analysts warn that this rivalry, if not managed, could escalate into a full-blown political crisis that may hinder development efforts.
Lusaka’s Final Word: A Call for Constructive Criticism
Despite the heated exchange, Lusaka emphasized that he welcomes constructive criticism but will not tolerate “cheap blackmail and blatant lies.” He reaffirmed his commitment to Bungoma’s development and dismissed Waluke’s remarks as political noise meant to seek relevance.
“As leaders, we owe it to our people to uphold mutual respect and decorum, not to engage in petty mudslinging and outdated theatrics. My focus remains on propelling Bungoma forward, and no amount of noise will derail that mission.”
With the political temperatures in Bungoma rising, the big question remains: will this war of words subside, or is it just the beginning of a long political battle? Only time will tell.
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