Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has stirred fresh controversy by reinstating three cabinet ministers, Godfrey Owori, Benjamin Andama, and Livingstone Imbayi, months after dismissing them for what he described as poor performance. The unexpected reversal has left residents and observers questioning the direction and decision-making of the county government.
Last year, Governor Barasa sacked half his cabinet, citing their inability to deliver on their mandates. Now, with the return of these familiar faces, many are asking: Were the initial dismissals justified, or has the administration struggled to find suitable replacements? The move has sparked debate about whether this is a sign of indecision or a lack of viable talent to steer the county forward.
The reappointments come with added scrutiny. The newly reinstated Finance CECM reportedly lacks a background in accounting, raising concerns about his ability to manage the county’s complex budget. Similarly, the Health docket, already grappling with underfunded hospitals and service delivery challenges, will now be overseen by an official without apparent expertise in the field. Critics point to the sidelining of experienced figures like Dr. Mariam Were and Dr. Wesonga, who were let go earlier, as a missed opportunity to retain proven competence.
Residents are left wondering what has changed since these officials were deemed unfit for their roles. Has their performance improved, or is this a pragmatic reshuffle driven by political considerations rather than public need? The governor’s office has yet to provide a clear explanation, leaving the public to speculate about the motives behind this U-turn.
Compounding the confusion, Barasa’s administration faces internal gridlock. His earlier dismissal of chief officers triggered a standoff with the County Public Service Board (CPSB), forcing the governor to juggle multiple roles within his government. This centralization of duties has sparked concerns about efficiency, with delays in projects and services becoming increasingly evident.
For Kakamega’s residents, the stakes are high. Hospitals remain under-resourced, roads are deteriorating, and allegations of corruption persist. Yet, the county leadership appears preoccupied with reshuffling familiar names rather than tackling these pressing issues head-on. The cycle of dismissals and reappointments risks eroding public trust at a time when decisive action is sorely needed.
This saga reflects broader challenges in county governance, not just in Kakamega, but across regions where leadership struggles to balance politics with performance. While the governor retains the authority to appoint his team, the public has a right to expect a government that prioritizes results over recycling past players.
The Weekly Vision sought comment from the county’s media liaison, Mr. Juma, regarding this story. In response, he described the reporting as containing “seriously misleading, opinionated, and potentially defamatory phrases,” adding that any such claims would need to be substantiated, “if necessary, through legal channels.” The county’s position highlights the tension surrounding this ongoing saga, though no detailed rebuttal was provided at press time.
Kakamega’s people deserve a clear vision and capable hands to deliver it. As the county navigates this latest chapter, one question looms large: Will this administration rise to the occasion, or remain stuck in a loop of missed opportunities? Only time, and the governor’s next moves, will tell.
