Busia Governor Paul Otuoma faces scrutiny over allegations of irregular recruitment of directors and deputy directors within the county government. Starting Monday, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has summoned several officials to its Daima Plaza regional office in Bungoma town for questioning. This follows growing concerns from residents and allegations of favouritism in recent senior appointments.
Among those summoned are Brian Odekeyo (Director of Energy), Margaret Okumu (Director of Agribusiness), Hudson Bradford Sireka (Director of Industry), and several other directors and deputy directors from various departments. In total, 39 individuals are expected to record statements with the EACC, according to an official letter addressed to the county secretary dated October 30, 2024.
The controversy comes in the wake of accusations that Governor Otuoma has prioritized appointments from Samia South, a region heavily populated by his relatives and close allies. Among the appointees are Tumaini and Ayieko, both of whom have been called in for questioning by the EACC. Additionally, Otuoma’s brother, Victor Otuoma, serves as the Director of Sports, while several other individuals from these regions have secured key roles, including positions in Budget, Drugs Control, and Audit.
Residents claim this hiring trend disproportionately favours individuals from Samia South, where the governor himself hails from, and contradicts Section 17 of the Public Officer Ethics Act, which prohibits nepotism and favouritism in public office. Busia County, composed of seven sub-counties, continues to grapple with the implications of these allegations, sparking heated debates about transparency and fairness in public service.
