Former Migori gubernatorial aspirant Byron Oginga has sharply criticized Governor Ayacko, Migori Senator Eddy Okech, and the County Assembly for their failure to perform their oversight duties, accusing them of enabling a systemic breakdown in governance that has severely impacted service delivery and development in the county.
Oginga expressed deep concern over the KSh 2.2 billion allocated to Migori County since the 2022 general elections, claiming that these funds have not been used effectively to bring about tangible improvements in critical areas such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
In his statement, Oginga emphasized that despite the significant financial inflow, the county government has failed to deliver on its promises to the electorate, leaving citizens frustrated and disillusioned.
“The lack of accountability and effective oversight is evident, not only in the executive but also in the legislative bodies meant to keep it in check,” Oginga remarked.
He pointed out that both the County Assembly and Senator Okech have been complicit or indifferent to the widespread mismanagement of resources under Governor Ayacko’s administration.
He described their inaction as “laxity” and accused them of failing to use their positions to ensure that public funds are properly utilized.
Oginga’s frustration is rooted in the fact that, despite the presence of these oversight bodies, the county continues to face governance challenges, including potential plunder of public resources, which, according to Oginga, is occurring “in full view” of both the County Assembly and Senator Okech.
He also condemned the silence of Senator Okech on these issues, stating that his lack of intervention has contributed to the suffering of the people.
“The people of Migori are bearing the brunt of this leadership failure. The County Assembly has failed in its duty to hold the executive accountable, and Senator Okech has remained mute on the matter. This has left the people with little recourse,” Oginga said.
The former gubernatorial aspirant’s comments highlight a broader problem of political accountability in Kenya, where politicians often prioritize maintaining power and political alliances over addressing the real needs of the electorate.
Oginga’s call for greater scrutiny and responsibility from both the County Assembly and Senate is a reflection of the growing frustration among Migori residents, who have expressed dissatisfaction with the county’s leadership and the lack of meaningful progress.
As the next election approaches, Oginga urges the electorate to hold all their leaders accountable—not just the governor, but also the legislative bodies tasked with ensuring that public resources are used efficiently for the benefit of the people.
He emphasized that the future of Migori depends on the willingness of its leaders to rise to the occasion and take responsibility for improving governance and service delivery.
“The question is simple: will Migori’s leadership step up and address these challenges, or will we continue to witness mismanagement and underdevelopment? It is the people of Migori who suffer from these failures, and they will be the ones demanding change,” Oginga concluded.
Oginga’s remarks come at a time when political pressure is mounting for better leadership and accountability, with residents keenly observing how their elected representatives respond to these calls for change.
Oginga’s Political Journey and Vision for Migori
Byron Oginga, who contested the 2022 Migori gubernatorial race, shocked many by engaging with voters on the ground in unconventional ways.
The 31-year-old aspirant, not backed by the traditional political elite, used public service vehicles and boda boda (motorcycle taxis) to travel across the county in search of votes.
His grassroots approach to campaigning resonated with many voters, but he faced stiff competition from seasoned politicians, including former Rongo MP Dalmas Otieno, former Migori MP John Pesa, and Senator Ochilo Ayacko, who were all vying to succeed Governor Okoth Obado.
Other contenders in the race included the embattled former County Assembly Speaker Boaz Okoth, the then Water and Energy Executive Rebecca Maroa, and businessmen Philip Mwabe and Robert Okongo.
Despite the fierce competition, Oginga’s message of transparency and grassroots involvement struck a chord with many Migori residents, who continue to demand better leadership.
As Migori’s political landscape continues to evolve, Oginga remains a vocal advocate for change, urging the electorate to demand accountability from their leaders and prioritize the well-being of the county over political alliances.
