The BBI report took the centre stage during the Mashujaa Day celebration in Bungoma County. The function was held at Matulo ward in Webuye West and was attended by several leaders led by Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati. In his address, Governor Wangamati said the BBI report should be made accessible to all Kenyans, to allow everyone to read it and individually analyze it instead of getting its contents through politicians.
The Governor further urged County residents to observe the Covid-19 health directives, including wearing of face masks, social distancing and regular washing of hands with soap and water. He noted that he had been in self isolation for 14 days following advice from the Health Ministry and was keen to remind residents that the virus threat is real. The Bungoma County Commissioner Samuel Kimitu also urged residents to follow the Health Ministry Covid-19 directives, and urge the local administrators to ensure they are adhered to. He said they may be forced to arrest anyone who isn’t observing the regulations.
Webuye West MP Dan Wanyama urged the national government to supply desks to schools, in line with the state’s project to construct desks for schools through local artisans. He said schools haven’t received desks and the whole project could be another graft story, like the KEMSA scandal.
On his part, Ndivisi ward MCA Martin Pepela Wanyonyi called for an open access to the BBI report. He said President Uhuru Kenyatta and ODM leader Raila Odinga should hasten to release the report, and ensure all Kenyans can access it so that they go through it before they make critical decisions. He added that Kenyans have waited for the report’s release for too long. He also stated that they are ready as MCAs to work with the County Governor, although they’ll not set aside their oversight role.
Individuals who received Presidential recognition as Mashujaas from the County include Everest Muchuma Khayota, who excelled in nurturing talents among the youths, Eric Walucho and retired teacher John Wanjala Masinde. Addressing the press, Mwalimu John as he is referred to by many, said he received Presidential recognition for his sterling performance in the education sector, adding that discipline was key during his tenure as a Mathematics teacher.