Independent Electoral and Boundary Commissions (IEBC) have declared Dr. Paul Otuoma, a former Funyula member of Parliament, as the Busia governor elect.
After he received 164,478 votes, Otuoma was declared for the post by Lazarus Chebii, Busia County Elections Returning officer. He beat his closest opponent Nambale MP John Bunyasi, ANC, who received 92,144 votes.
Otuoma was a candidate in the 2017 race but lost to Sospeter Ojaamong, the outgoing governor. Otuoma has conceded defeat after losing Teso South’s parliamentary seat that was won UDA MP elect Mary Emaase.
Otuoma thanked all the residents of the area for their support and congratulated them on being declared the winner.
“I will not betray the trust and confidence you have bestowed on me,” he said lauding them for maintaining peace during the campaign period.
He said that the County was behind in terms development, particularly in the health sector. This needed to be addressed.
“We will streamline the civil service in the County and ensure that there is no discrimination,” he said adding that his leadership will establish an advisory and economic council with a view to involve local residents in the County’s development.
Bunyasi expressed dissatisfaction at the electoral exercise, claiming that it was marred by threats and intimidation.
“There has also been chaos and even killings especially in Budalangi constituency,” he claimed.
He also claimed that some government officials were directed by him to support his closest rival, which is against the law.
“Bribery has also been experienced across the county,” he said adding that he will only accept the results if the process is duly followed.
Andrew Okiya Omtata, of National Reconstruction Alliance Party, was elected the Senate winner after defeating Hillary Itela of ODM. Omtata garnered a total of 171,681 votes against Itela’s 59,276 hence becoming Busia Senator elect.
Catherine Nakhabi Omanyo was declared the County Woman Member of the National Assembly elect after garnering 129,710 votes against her closest opponent Susan Mangeni’s (UDA) 48,197.
After the two terms of Sospeter Ojaamong and Florence Mutua, Omtata, Omanyo, and Omtata became the second governor, senator, and woman representative respectively.
By Salome Alwanda
Source: kenyanews
