Busia: In a significant deviation from tradition, the Busia County Government boycotted the Mashujaa Day celebrations at Chelelelemuk in Teso North Sub-County, opting instead to hold a parallel event at St Benedict’s Budalangi High School in Bunyala Subcounty. This move highlights ongoing political tensions between the County Commissioner’s office and the Governor’s office.
According to Kenya News Agency, the decision to hold separate celebrations stems from recent conflicts between County Commissioner Chaunga Mwachaunga and Governor Paul Otuoma, with the latter accusing the former of political interference. The dispute has escalated ahead of the national examination period, during which the commissioner has issued stringent warnings against exam malpractice and unauthorized night vigils.
Chaunga Mwachaunga has outlined strict regulations to maintain the integrity of the upcoming exams, including banning phones at exam centers and suspending all-night vigils, known locally as “disco-matanga,” to ensure stud
ents have adequate preparation time. These measures have stirred further discord, as Governor Otuoma criticized the County Commissioner for overstepping his duties and engaging in politics during his speech at the parallel Mashujaa Day event.
Governor Otuoma emphasized the county’s focus on economic development and infrastructure, including the expansion of the Busia-Kisumu Road and the construction of a new county government office block. He urged the County Commissioner to align with the county administration’s development goals rather than engage in political activities.
The original Mashujaa Day event in Teso North was attended by notable figures such as former Governor Sospeter Ojaamong and 2027 gubernatorial aspirant Eng. Vincent Sidai, indicating ongoing interest and involvement in the region’s political dynamics.
