Kisii Deputy Governor Elijah Obebo Sarturday cautioned youths in Masaba South Sub-County against harassing revenue collection officers, saying such actions undermine service delivery and hurt the county’s economic growth.
He said revenue officers are a crucial extension of the devolved unit who play a critical role in mobilizing funds that support essential services.
Any intimidation, obstruction or violence against the officers while on duty would not be tolerated, warned Obebo.
“When the officers are harassed or prevented from doing their work, it is the residents ultimately suffer,” the deputy governor said.
Obebo sparatey called on former Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu to retire from active politics saying age has caught up with him.
He said Machogu has already had his good time in politics and it was now time he gave room to younger politicians to work.
“Leadership is about knowing when to serve and when to allow others to take over,” Obebo said.
He was speaking at Masimba SDA church during a fundraiser.
He was joined by area MP Dr Daniel Manduku and parliamentary hopeful Ben Obino.
Manduku urged the church to embrace peace and pray for the country.
Obino urged for tolerance as aspirants visit places to sell their agenda to the electorate.
Obebo said while they respect Machogu, advanced age should compell him to rethink his bid for governorship.
“We respect the contribution he made but there comes a time when one must step aside and allow fresh energy to move the region forward.”
Obebo said at 77, Machogu was growing politically weak to be of any leadership relevance to the County.
“He is clocking 77 or thereabout, we wish him well if he attempts to vie but into won’t be easy.”
“He should not be loitering in politics, , all t would be a complete wash down, more worse than before, ” the Deputy Governor stated.
Machogu is yet to make formal declaration on whether he would run against Arati, the second time.
He is, however, reported to be holding key officials ahead of announcing his bid.
On Friday, during Jamhuri Day, Governor Simba Arati, without providing evidence, accused Machogu of sponsoring youths to jeer at him at the function.
He spoke referring to momentary skirmishes when he arrived to lead the celebrations at Mobamba Secondary in Masaba South.
Handlers disputed that Machogu was in in Kisii during the event.
Obebo further defended Governor Arati ‘s adminstratiom saying they have done a lot and would do much in the subsequent period.
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