Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has dismissed claims that he has decamped from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and joined President William Ruto's United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
Speaking during the launch of the Kakamega County Governors Cup on Saturday, the county boss emphasised that his support for the current government is solely geared at fostering cordial relations with the national government to enable Kakamega to benefit from development projects.
"As the governor, my priority is to serve the people of Kakamega with the help of the National Government," he explained.
Barasa, a governor elected under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, interacted frequently with President William Ruto during the Head of State's visit to the Western region last week.
Barasa welcomed President Ruto to his home leading to speculation on the political direction he wants to take.
However, Barasa emphasised he was not under any obligation to explain his dalliance with the president to political commentators questioning his political moves.
Barasa welcomed the president's efforts to revamp the sugar industries in the country, especially those in Western Kenya.
The Governor, who is facing several graft charges, lauded the President for the initiatives he is taking to revive the sugar sector saying the moves will go a long way in addressing the plight of cane farmers.
"You have seen that after only two days of issuing an order what is happening in Mumias and we want to support the president in all he is doing," he stated.
Since taking over, Ruto has wooed politicians, previously loyal to ODM to his UDA Party. The opposition has protested the raid, terming it an affront to democracy ,adding that the trend was weakening other political parties.
Meanwhile, Barasa is facing corruption allegations stemming from his tenure as the CEO of the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO).
The Governor has been accused of misappropriating Ksh785 million through excess payment to the Lake Turkana Wind Power (LTWP) project.
