Kisumu Governor Nyong’o Denies Rift with Raila Over Sugar Factory Leasing
Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o has addressed reports claiming a rift between him and ODM party leader Raila Odinga concerning the leasing of state-owned sugar factories. In a statement issued on Friday, May 9, Nyong’o clarified that both he and Odinga are in full agreement on the issue and that no discord exists between them.
Nyong’o emphasized that recent media reports have created a misleading impression about their relationship. He stressed that both leaders are aligned in their stance regarding the future of the sugar factories. “We are fully aligned on this issue,” Nyong’o affirmed, rejecting any notion of disagreement.
The Governor reiterated their joint position, highlighting the need for the government to withdraw from managing the ailing factories. Nyong’o and Odinga believe the best course of action is for the government to lease these factories to private investors through a competitive and transparent process. This would allow private sector involvement and investment, which is necessary to revive the struggling sugar industry.
On May 7, Nyong’o issued a statement criticizing the national government’s plan to lease the Chemelil and Muhoroni sugar mills. He argued that the plan violates legal provisions and could potentially lead to monopolies, which would harm local farmers and undermine public property. Nyong’o emphasized that the 30-year leases proposed under the plan would disenfranchise local farmers, diminishing their land rights and economic autonomy.
Nyong’o described the proposed leasing arrangement as “ill-conceived” and a threat to the region’s land rights and community cohesion. He pointed out that such a move is unconstitutional, breaching Articles 10, 11, 60, and 62 of the Constitution, which guarantee public participation, transparency, and the protection of land.
The Governor also criticized the privatization plan, calling it an economic takeover that would disproportionately benefit a small number of wealthy individuals at the expense of the broader population. He noted that the proposal contradicts previous court rulings, which have upheld the principle of public ownership, and that the lack of transparency in the leasing process violates both the Constitution and public procurement laws.
Furthermore, Nyong’o expressed concerns about the financial and operational readiness of the two companies set to lease the mills. He questioned whether these companies have the capacity to effectively manage the factories. In his statement, he reminded the public that agriculture is a devolved function under Schedule 4 of the Constitution, and any national action that excludes county input is unconstitutional.
Nyong’o’s remarks reflect his firm opposition to the national government’s privatization agenda, which he believes would undermine local farmers and the region’s agricultural economy.
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Kisumu Governor Nyong’o Denies Rift with Raila Over Sugar Factory Leasing
