The Iteso community in Busia County is facing increasing hostility and marginalization under the leadership of Governor Paul Otuoma.
Allegations of corruption, nepotism, and mismanagement have left many members of the Iteso community feeling excluded from key political and economic opportunities.
These accusations have raised concerns over the governor’s leadership and the growing divide between the administration and the Iteso, a significant ethnic group in the county.
One of the major grievances voiced by the community centers on nepotism, with claims that highly qualified professionals from the Iteso community are being sidelined in favor of individuals from Governor Otuoma’s inner circle.
The governor’s associates, some of whom lack formal education or qualifications, reportedly wield significant influence over his decisions, particularly in employment and county appointments.
The Iteso community is now under attack through direct threats from Otuoma’s close allies.
Many professionals from the community have been denied promotions, while others live in fear of being dismissed from their positions due to their political involvement.
A notable case is that of Shobby Victor Ekasiba, a pharmaceutical technologist from the Iteso community, who narrowly escaped losing his job.
Ekasiba’s crime?
He was reportedly involved in Iteso politics during a funeral in his home area.
Sources reveal that Governor Otuoma’s administration is using such instances to intimidate and silence individuals who dare to participate in political activities outside of the governor’s circle of influence.
This environment of fear and exclusion has created deep tensions between the governor and the Iteso community, with many accusing him of betraying their support.
The governor’s inner circle, which includes individuals such as a nominated Member of County Assembly (MCA) from Funyula, his personal assistant Noor, and a close aide from Budalang’i, is believed to be controlling key decisions and ensuring that political loyalty to Otuoma is rewarded, while dissenters are punished.
In addition to the accusations of nepotism, Governor Otuoma is also facing serious allegations of corruption.
Key development projects in Busia County, including those aimed at improving rural roads, water supplies, and ICT centers, have stalled under his leadership.
Despite promises of modern ICT centers in every sub-county, these projects remain largely unfulfilled, leaving the county’s youth without the much-needed opportunities for employment and education.
Furthermore, the county newspaper, which could have served as a platform for addressing socio-economic issues, remains neglected.
Insiders suggest that Governor Otuoma’s administration is more focused on social media presence and reaction than on implementing long-term projects that benefit the public.
. Some local leaders, including Members of Parliament and MCAs, have distanced themselves from Otuoma’s administration, citing corruption and ineffectiveness.
In recent weeks, allegations have emerged surrounding corruption in major construction projects, such as the multimillion-shilling construction of kiosks in Busia town and the proposed Mundika trailer park.
Reports suggest that wealthy businessmen from outside the county are benefiting from these deals at the expense of local interests, further exacerbating the sense of disenfranchisement among Busia’s residents.
