By Betty Luke
Former Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission boss Halakhe Waqo has castigated Isiolo Governor Mohammed Kuti and his predecessor Godana Doyo over underdevelopment and misplaced priorities.
Mr Waqo, who recently resigned as Universities Fund Board Chair to vie for Isiolo Governorship, said little had been achieved compared to the about Sh50 billion the county had received during the two regimes.
He said time had come for Isiolo residents to eject poor leaders and elect those with community interests at heart like him.
The ODM Party aspirant said it was unfortunate that the cosmopolitan county was ailing from tribalism and promised to ensure fair and equal representation for all should he become the Governor.
“My government will fairly serve all regardless of their tribe and religion. We will ensure we have face of Isiolo for representation of all communities,” he said.
Mr Waqo says he is the ideal replacement for Dr Kuti in driving the change that Isiolo needs and is endearing himself to electorates who feel a change is crucial.
During a mega meeting that brought together hundreds of youths from various communities, the leader said he will prioritize on among others youth empowerment, employment and education for poor and vulnerable groups.
His government, he said, will besides offering direct jobs to young people, set up small industries to employ more and nurture talents.
“I will invest in Medium and Small Enterprises so that Mwananchi has a source of income to fend for themselves and their families,” Mr Waqo noted.
“I will ensure we have regular bursaries for needy learners so that no one drops out of school due to lack of fees not distributing once in three years”.
Former EACC boss Halakhe Waqo addresses his supporters while on top of his car at Mulata in Isiolo on February 20, 2022. PHOTO/PRESS POINT
In a direct jab on Governor Kuti, Mr Waqo said it was sad that residents were fueling fire engine whenever there is an inferno and that many feeder roads especially in Bulapesa ward were in pathetic state.
He said he will support bodaboda operators form a cooperative for empowerment, offer jobs to local contractors to revive the economy and resolve land disputes that have and continue to hinder development of the properties.
“I will diligently serve you and should I fail you, demonstrate and protest to my office and eject me before the end of my term,” Mr Waqo told the hundreds of residents.
While launching his campaigns at Mulata on Saturday, he appealed to youths to shun being divided on tribal or religious lines but remain united and steadfast in championing for peaceful coexistence among communities living in Isiolo.
The leader told Dr Kuti and Mr Doyo to be ready for a fierce contest in the August elections with the three contestants all supporting Azimio la Umoja Movement.
VIDEO: https://fb.watch/bio64GrnCX/
He said Isiolo residents should trust him with the county’s top seat as had while as EACC boss and working in Non-Governmental Organisations diligently served Kenyans making him get awarded by the State with Chief Order of Burning Spear (CBS).
“Kindly stand and walk with me this journey. I am not after accumulating wealth but serving the community and advancing development for improved livelihoods,” he told the public at the event.
He also promised to boldly deal with corruption and ensure prudent use of resources for the intended purpose for residents to benefit.
