Inform Trans Nzoia

15/11/2024

SABOTI:MP AMISI TELLS PRESIDENT RUTO RESPECT CHURCH.

Saboti MP Caleb Amisi has urged President William Ruto and state agencies to show respect for the Church, emphasizing its long-standing role in the political landscape.

"The Church has been part of the political landscape long before modern states existed," Amisi stated in a message to the president on X on Friday.

"You can never win a war against the Church, no matter how powerful you are."

President Ruto, who attended the inaugural graduation ceremony at Tangaza University, an institution run by the Catholic Church,on Friday stated the importance of factual discourse, though he did not directly reference the ongoing criticism from the clergy.

The Bishops on Thursday accused the government of "telling lies."

"Even as we engage in public discourse on matters important to the people of Kenya, we must be careful to be factual, lest we become victims of the very things we accuse others of doing. I know you understand what I mean," Ruto said.

The Catholic Church had earlier raised concerns about the direction the country was taking, warning against the rising incidences of abductions allegedly linked to state security agencies.

The Bishops also acknowledged that taxation is necessary for government revenue but expressed regret that citizens were being overburdened by excessive taxes.

They further called on the government to fulfill its promises, particularly in paying essential service providers, as delays were negatively impacting vulnerable communities.

Amisi, an ODM legislator and chair of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in the National Assembly, supported the Church’s stance. He warned that the government's high taxation policies would exacerbate poverty in the country.

"The Church controls a significant following in Kenya, and the Bishops’ concerns should be respected and addressed," Amisi said.

Civil servants are among those most affected by the heavy tax burden. For instance, a worker in Job Group K faces deductions of sh. 2,000 for the housing levy, Ksh. 2,000 for SHA,sh. 8,000 in PAYE, among other deductions.

26/08/2024

KITALE:

03/07/2024

SABOTI MP AMISI REJECTS SALARY INCREMENT,WANTS IT TO SPONSOR SABOTI NEEDY STUDENTS.

Saboti Member of Parliament Caleb Amisi has declined the salary increment awarded by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission due to the country's challenging economic situation.

Instead, Amisi requested that the increase on his payslip be redirected towards the educational needs of underprivileged students in his constituency.

In a letter dated July 3, 2024, to the Clerk of the National Assembly, Amisi stated that it would be prudent for elected representatives to take responsibility and show solidarity with their constituents, especially during these tough economic times.

He suggested that the equivalent amount of the increment should be used to fund bursary programs.

The legislature noted that many students are financially disadvantaged and unable to access educational opportunities due to financial constraints.

The vocal MP noted that such measures would help alleviate pressure on the national budget while empowering young people for future leadership roles.

According to the SRC Gazette Notice, the new salaries for MPs and Senators will be Ksh739,600, up from the previous Ksh725,502.

Both Speakers of the House will receive an increment from Ksh1,185,327 to Ksh1,208,362, while their deputies will see a raise from Ksh948,261 to Ksh966,690.

In the executive branch, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Cabinet Secretaries, and the Attorney General were among the biggest beneficiaries, receiving a salary increase of Ksh33,000.

The principal secretaries,IG Japheth Koome and NIS Director General Noordin Haji will be earning Ksh819,844 from this month.

Previously, their salary was quoted as Ksh792,519, marking an increment of Ksh27,325.

(By Masika,Simiyu,Too,Chebet&Sandachi).

30/06/2024

FORMER KAPOMBOI MCA MULIPUKO BACKS NATEMBEYA AGAIN.

Politician Ben Mulipuko has reversed his decision to collaborate with the national assembly speaker.

He has instead opted to realign with Governor George Natembeya.

Mulipuko has previously been a supporter of Moses Wetangula, who ideologically differs from Natembeya.

On Sunday at a church fundraiser in Namanjalala, Mulipuko publicly blamed unnamed individuals for his differences with the Governor.

He vowed to work with and support Natembeya's leadership.

"There are forces who tell you wrong and negative information about me, of which they don't know I talk to you at night hours on our county's progress," said Mulipuko.

In a surprising turn, Mulipuko praised Natembeya for his development initiatives,terming him a development-oriented leader.

The former Kapomboi MCA has been supporting Wetangula since last year after missing an opportunity in the county government's administration.

Governor Natembeya has welcomed him back, stating, "I am happy Mulipuko has been a supporter of Wetangula, but he is back home."

22/06/2024

22/06/2024

KITALE:SABOTI MP AMISI VOWS TO LEAD TUESDAY DEMOS,AS HE ADDRESSES A LARGE CROWD:

Saboti Member of the National Assembly, Caleb Amisi, will be among the opposition leaders leading a demonstration on Tuesday against the perceived draconian finance bill.

Addressing a large crowd in Kitale CBD on Saturday, Amisi lamented that the bill will increase the prices of essential commodities such as fuel, baby diapers, and sanitary pads for women.

He claimed that President William Ruto aims to impoverish Kenyans to maintain financial control.

“Ruto wants to be like Mobutu Sese Seko, but we are telling him that system is outdated.

The finance bill will kill Kenyans' income activities because they will become extremely poor,” said Amisi.

He emphasized that the demonstrations, particularly with Generation Z, are unstoppable.

“There comes a time when a generation must stand up. Power belongs to the people, and if you cannot take care of the same power, then the owner will take it back,” added the vocal MP.

He dispelled fears of underdevelopment in areas where Members of Parliament voted against the bill.

He stated that regardless of development outcomes, his camp will form the next government to ensure more Kenyans enjoy being part of it.

Amisi alleged that he is currently being frustrated by government agencies, including a scheme to bring charges against him in court.

07/06/2024

KITALE:NATEMBEYA URGES HIS 2022 OPPONENTS TO COLLABORATE:

Governor George Natembeya has invited his 2022 electoral opponents to work with his administration for the development of Trans Nzoia County.

The governor pointed out the need for acceptance of his decisive electoral victory and the formation of his government.

"It's time for the opposition to join forces with me so that together we can transform our county," said Natembeya.

He expressed these sentiments on Friday during a prayer and thanksgiving ceremony at the Showgrounds in Kitale.

At the interdenominational prayer service, which united religious, political, and business communities, Governor Natembeya urged church leaders to pray for the county to foster unity and stability.

The governor reiterated the success of his Mbegu initiative, which has significantly boosted farming in the area, and announced its continuation next year.

He pledged increased funding for the program in the next financial year to enhance food security and improve farmers' livelihoods.

Natembeya promised to open cultural centers in Trans Nzoia, allowing elders from various communities to share and practice their cultural traditions.

He also committed to expanding and renovating the rehabilitation center in Kwanza to better accommodate prisoners and support drug addicts in their recovery.

Among those present at the event were former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati, his deputy Philomena Kapkory, First Lady Lillian Natembeya, Area Deputy Speaker Obed Mwale, and MCAs Erick Wafula (Hospital).

Others were Andrew Kutitila (Sikhendu), Furaha Lusweti (Waitaluk), Kennedy Mugush (Keiyo), Sarah Lubano (Kwanza), Keffa Were (Kapomboi), and Tabitha Waruguru (nominated).

Members of the Trans Nzoia executive, led by County Secretary Truphosa Amere, also attended the ceremony.

(By Nicholas Wamalwa, Hezron Lagat, Felista Naliaka, and Juliet Wekesa)

18/04/2024

SABOTI: MP AMISI REGRETS TELLING CDF OGOLLA NOT TO RETIRE,MOURNS HIS DEATH.

Saboti MP Caleb Amisi has mourned with the family of CDF Francis Ogolla and the nation at large following his demise.

The late Ogolla was among other nine defense officials who perished following the crash of a chopper they were travelling in at Kaben, Marakwet East on Thursday.

In his message of condolence,the saboti legislature termed the late Ogolla his best friend and a leader who served the nation with charisma.

"You are the second person whom I have mourned this much other than my late grandmother Esther Mudom who brought me up"the MP said in a notice.

"Meet her and together dance with the angels,all is well that ends well".

The legislature added that he convinced Ogolla to continue serving Kenyans even after he wanted to peacefully retire,encouraging him that the Tonje military rules allowed him to do so.

He said he regrets his advice since it's contrary would have seen the CDF alive.

"My brother,I deeply regret ask for forgiveness,you said I am the most trustworthy leader you have ever met,probably my contrary advise could have kept you alive today"added Amisi.

27/10/2023

PRESIDENT RUTO APPOINTS VOCAL FORMER MP KUTTUNY BOARD CHAIRPERSON.

President William Ruto has appointed the former Cherangany MP, Joshua Kutuny, as the Chairperson of the Kenya Copyright Board.

His appointment, effective from October 27, 2023, is for a three-year term.

In the 2022 elections, Kutuny lost his seat while running on a Jubilee party ticket, aligned with Azimio La Umoja, to Patrick Simiyu (DAP-K).

This appointment may also provide him with an opportunity to advise the president on political matters, leveraging his experience.

Kutuny's political journey began when he was first elected in 2007 on an ODM ticket.

He faced defeat in 2013 when he ran on a URP ticket against Wesley Korir(Independent).

In the same year, former President Uhuru Kenyatta appointed him as the Political Affairs Director.

Kutuny made a successful political comeback in 2017, defeating Korir once again, this time on a Jubilee ticket.

Born in 1978, Kutuny holds a Bachelor's degree in political science and a Master's in Leadership.

He has previously stated, "My work is to plan to constitute or damage governments."

08/10/2023

HEALTH CS NAKHUMICHA APPOINTS DR.AKOTO CHIEF OF STAFF.

Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha has appointed Dr. Anthony Akoto her Chief of Staff.

Dr.Akoto,39 a medical doctor with a wealth of experience, will among others assume a pivotal role in managing the office's staff and presiding over meetings concerning staffing matters.

Dr. Akoto's journey to this appointment began in Bungoma, where he served as a medic and even held the position of KMPDU western region's elected representative.

Prior to his current role, the Bungoma County government had entrusted him with overseeing one of its health units.

Hailing from Namanjalala in Kwanza, Trans Nzoia County, Dr. Akoto embarked on his educational path at Namanjalala Primary School before transferring to Matunda Primary School to complete his KCPE.

His academic excellence caught the attention of the principal at St. Anthony's High School Kitale, Cosmas Nabungolo, who offered him a scholarship and eventually appointed him as the school's Headboy.

With his impressive performance in KCPE, Dr. Akoto, despite his humble background, gained admission to Kenyatta University, where he pursued a Bachelor of Science in Medicine.

Additionally, he holds a Master's degree in Public Health, further showcasing his commitment to the field.

(By Nicholas Wamalwa-Editor).

04/10/2023

TRANS NZOIA PROFESSIONALS,GOVERNOR NATEMBEYA MOURN CHAIRMAN MAKHANU.

Trans Nzoia Luhya professionals are in mourning following the passing of their chairman, William Makhanu.

The sad news was announced on Tuesday evening by Dr. Geoffrey Kasembeli, a close friend of Makhanu and also a member of the professionals' community.

While unconfirmed reports suggest that Makhanu, popularly known as Tolometi on social media, succumbed to heart complications, the exact cause of his death is yet to be officially confirmed.

Following Makhanu's demise, social media platforms, particularly the Trans Nzoia Luhya Professionals group where he served as the Chairman and an administrator, were flooded with messages of condolences and heartfelt mourning.

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya said he has lost a close friend,a hardworking and a good leader.

He said Makhanu contributed to development of the County in various aspects including championing for education.

Dr. Kasembeli, delivering the somber news to the Trans Nzoia Luhya Professionals' WhatsApp Group, expressed his sadness, saying, "Friends, it is with sadness that I let each of us know that we have just lost our chairman William Tolometi two minutes ago."

Erick Wafukho, the former Finance CAS, expressed his shock at the news, highlighting how Makhanu always responded positively during times of need, particularly in fundraising efforts aimed at helping the less privileged in society.

He said, "I have no words, and I am still in denial that our chairman Tolometi has left us and gone home."

Former Trans Nzoia CECs for Lands Elizabeth Nyongesa and Christine Tanguli also joined in mourning Makhanu's passing and urged the professionals to remain united in their grief for their departed chairman.

Diana Lukosi, in a heartfelt tribute, listed eight significant projects that she had undertaken with Makhanu to improve the livelihoods of communities in Trans Nzoia.

She specifically mentioned their joint efforts in addressing the late Baby Purity cancer issue.

Emmanuel, in his message, expressed deep sorrow at Makhanu's untimely departure and prayed for his safe journey to continue with his good deeds until they meet again.

Makhanu will be remembered for his philanthropic activities, including fundraising for the education of underprivileged students, covering hospital bills for patients, mentoring students in the community regarding career choices, emphasizing the importance of education, and contributing to the economic empowerment of the Luhya community.

He had recently proposed the formation of a Savings and Credit Cooperative Society by Luhya professionals.

Makhanu has been working with the Catholic Diocese of Eldoret as an accountant.

The passing of Makhanu is a great loss to Trans Nzoia Luhya professionals and the broader community.

His legacy of selfless service and dedication to improving the lives of others will be remembered, and may his soul rest in eternal peace.

(Nicholas Wamalwa)

27/08/2023

WACHA KUTONGOZA WAKE ZETU,WERUNGA TELLS WETANGULA IN REFERNCE TO POACHING DAP-K MPS.

Former Trans Nzoia Speaker Joshua Werunga has accused National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula of poaching DAP-K members of parliament.

Werunga, a political advisor in Trans Nzoia County and the party's official, urged Ford Kenya leader Wetangula to respect institutions and likened the situation to snatching people's wives.

He claimed Wetangula snatched Cherangany MP Patrick Simiyu and Kiminini counterpart Kakai Bisau, which he believes is harming the party.

Werunga advised DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa to mentor aspirants early for the 2027 elections, focusing on loyalty to the party.

Simiyu and Bisau have been absent from party functions since last year's General election.

Werunga also recalled how Wamalwa assisted others in gaining power but faced instances of disloyalty, like with Webuye West MP Dan Wanyama.

"Nakumbuka vile hadi wewe na mimi tulikodeshea Dan na Didmas MP wa Kimilili bibi in 2017 but wamekuruka"complained Werunga.

17/08/2023

SHUT YOUR MOUTH WHILE HERE OR ELSE YOU WILL BE RECALLED,RAILA TELLS US AMBASSADOR.

Azimio leader Raila Odinga has asked US ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman to shut her mouth over Kenya's affairs.

Odinga while addressing a devolution summit on Thursday, said Whitman’s statement over 2022 election was uncalled for, urging her to keep off the country’s affairs.

“Tell the rogue ambassador Kenya is not the United States. Kenya is not a colony of the United States.Keep your mouth shut while you are here. Otherwise, we will call for your recall back to your country,” said Odinga.

On Wednesday while addressing same delegates at the devolution conference Whitman said the 2022 election was free and fair and that President William Ruto democratically.

The statement made President Ruto to order for a standing ovation for the ambassador while clapping for her.

16/08/2023

US SAYS 2022 KENYA'S ELECTION WAS FREE AND FAIR.

US Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman has commended Kenya for its democratic practices within the political space.

Addressing at the devolution conference in Eldoret on Wednesday,the ambassador praised Kenyans for conducting peaceful,fair,transparent and verifiable elections.

According to Whitman, both the Supreme Court and other relevant agencies endorsed the accuracy of the IEBC's 2022 election results.

This confirmation led her to applaud Kenya as the epitome of a stable democracy in Africa.

She further acknowledged the strong business ties between the United States and Kenya, highlighting Kenya's significant role as the largest export partner of the United States.

13/08/2023

Lugari MP Nabwera prioritises Road Infrastructure,Most of Roads Maintained.

Lugari MP, Nabii Nabwera, has pledged to conduct routine maintenance on roads covering up to 200 kilometres within the constituency over the next five years.

The legislator emphasized that road infrastructure stands as a key priority for him. In the past year, Nabwera stated that, in collaboration with KeRRA, his team has graded and gravelled 40 kilometres of roads across the constituency.

He specifically mentioned roads like the Matete-Bahai-Nambilima road in Chevaywa ward, Lwandeti-Nzoia-Masasuli road, Nzoia-DEB Duka Moja road, and Lwandeti-Lugari station road in Lwandeti ward, among other significant roads that his administration has worked on.

These efforts, he explained, have been extended to other wards as well.

Furthermore, Nabwera pointed out that, through his networking efforts, he successfully transferred the Turbo-Sikhendu road (C44) from KeRRA to KENHA. Funds have already been allocated for the road's design before its planned upgrade to bitumen standards.

The legislator reiterated that the maintenance work is driven by his steadfast commitment to establishing an interconnected constituency with a robust transportation and communication system.

This system aims to connect residents to essential facilities such as healthcare, education institutions, markets, and other public utilities.

10/08/2023

MCA WAFULA 'IMPEACHES' TRANS NZOIA SPEAKER WANYONYI.

Hospital MCA Erick Wafula caused a stir on Thursday when he announced his intention to push for the impeachment of Speaker Andrew Wanyonyi.

Speaking to residents during the inauguration of a Maternity Hospital in Kwanza, Wafula alleged that the speaker had played a role in the appointment of two assembly board members.

The individuals, as per Wafula, claimed to have bribed certain MCAs in order to secure their positions.

The alleged recipients of the appointment letters had reportedly received them on the preceding Wednesday.

Wafula also asserted that since assuming office, the speaker had been conspicuously absent from all county functions.

Chapter 11 of the constitution,however delineates the conditions under which the speaker of a County Assembly can be impeached.

The grounds encompass gross misconduct, violations of the Constitution or relevant laws, incompetence, abuse of office, corruption, or other similarly grave offenses.

failing to attend county functions is not listed as one of the valid reasons for impeachment as per the constitution.

The speaker could potentially challenge any attempts to impeach him on the basis that he does not have direct involvement in the selection of other board members.

04/08/2023

Trans Nzoia Receives Referal Hospital,Natembeya renames it Wamalwa Kijana Hospital.

The county government of Trans Nzoia on Friday officially received the Trans Nzoia Teaching and Referral Hospital facility from the Contractor and renamed it Wamalwa Kijana Memorial Hospital.

Addressing a gathering at the facility during the handing over ceremony, Governor George Natembeya said his administration is committed in addressing health challenges.

The governor said with the new Hospital in place, residents are expected to get high quality services at a low cost.

The Hospital, Governor Natembeya said will serve efficiently a population of 1,200,000 residents of Trans Nzoia but will also accomodate the neighbouring Bungoma,West Pokot,Turkana, Elgeyo Marakwet, Uasin Gishu counties and parts of Uganda.

“The hospital will have a capacity to serve up to a population of five million in the region and we are expecting to hire at least 1000 employees including senior medics and other nonskilled staff, “said Governor Natembeya.

At the same time, Natembeya has banned any attempts by private individuals to introduce pharmacies around the hospital saying it is a catalyst for drug theft.

He directed that there will be only one big pharmacy at the premise which will be owned by the hospital itself.

“Drug management has been an issue in the past, from now henceforth, we will be monitoring the drugs accordingly “added the governor.

He also warned the hospital employees against practicing conflict of interest saying all the supplies should be done by those not from the department but those who are duly registered.

With taking over, the County government will now have a task of collaborating with other partners including national government in equipping the prestigious public hospital.

(By Editor-Nicholas Wamalwa).