Kisii Governor Simba Arati has accused his political rivals of deliberately frustrating his administration, saying persistent political attacks stalled key development projects during his early years in office.
Speaking at Nyabisia in Bobasi while launching a new health centre, Arati claimed that sustained political hostility significantly slowed the county’s progress, forcing his government to operate under constant pressure.
He singled out South Mugirango MP Sylvanus Osoro and former Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu, accusing the two of instigating repeated confrontations that disrupted governance and derailed service delivery.
“For most of my time in office, it has been one battle after another. I could barely work. It is only this year that we have started to make meaningful progress,” Arati said.
The governor also alleged that the political pressure extended beyond the county, accusing impeached former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of deploying state machinery to intimidate his administration.
“I would wake up to find GSU officers camped outside my office. When I asked what they were doing there, they claimed they were just resting after a walk in town,” he said. “It left me wondering how armed officers could choose the governor’s office as a resting place.”
Arati said the relentless political onslaught created an environment of fear and instability, diverting attention and resources away from critical sectors such as health, infrastructure and agriculture.
“Instead of supporting development, they chose to fight me day and night. Kisii paid the price,” he said, drawing cheers from residents.
He accused Osoro and Machogu of deepening divisions and undermining county leadership for personal political gain, arguing that their actions delayed decision-making and weakened coordination between county and national government offices.
Efforts to reach Osoro and Machogu for comment were unsuccessful.
According to the governor, infighting and power struggles severely affected the implementation of several development initiatives, making it difficult to execute long-term plans.
Despite the challenges, Arati maintained that his administration remains focused on delivering its agenda, insisting that political pressure would not derail his commitment to the people of Kisii.
He also reaffirmed his government’s pledge to invest in Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE), promising the construction of modern classrooms across the county.
“Our administration is committed to ensuring that every child in Kisii begins their education in a safe, modern and conducive environment,” Arati said. “ECDE is the foundation of learning, and we must get it right.”
He added that investing in child-friendly infrastructure and trained teachers was critical to shaping the future of the county.
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