President William Ruto on Sunday, January 21, revealed that he would push for the creation of Teso County which he stated will be carved from Busia.
Speaking at a political rally in the region, Ruto stated that it was not easy but as Head of State, he would lobby for the case.
The issue of the creation of Teso County has been a contentious issue in the region and it was evident during Ruto’s visit as he was interrupted mid-speech to respond to the request.
“What you are asking me is hard but I will try my best,” Ruto promised amidst cheers from Teso residents.
The President though warned that he would not honour the request made by the Teso residents if they kept voting for his political rivals.
He pointed out that he had launched roads in the area, and constructed health facilities and other social amenities but the region always chose Azimio leader Raila Odinga as its preferred presidential candidate.
“If you want me to continue working for you, then you must also reciprocate during the voting period,” he stated after being asked to facilitate the creation of Teso County.
Western leaders who had accompanied the President led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, and Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba promised Ruto that the region would support him politically.
The creation of Teso County and Saboti County (to be carved from Trans Nzoia) were some of the recommendations made to the National Dialogue Committee by residents of the respective areas.
The Committee's recommendations will be discussed by Parliament in February before being presented to President Ruto and Azimio Leader Raila Odinga.
On January 16, while on a similar tour in the region, Raila rejected the request for the creation of Teso County.
“A nation like the United States has 52 States with Texas being bigger than Kenya. The country has 47 counties, and when the counties are large, development is well streamlined. Smaller counties are not the solution,” Raila remarked then.
He explained that, initially, the plan was to have fewer counties with Kakamega and Bungoma initially proposed as one county.
