Kisumu Governor Jack Ranguma, MCAs clash over Sh60 billion lake project

Governor Jack Ranguma and assembly members have clashed over the authenticity of the Sh60 billion Lake Front Development and Urban Renewal (LFDUR) project.

A section of MCAs now claim the much publicised project is a 'ghost project' after Mr Ranguma sacked City Manager Doris Ombara, and appointed her to head the project.

Ranguma has said the massive infrastructural works, which are set to commence along the lake shore, are clear indication of the project's viability.

But the MCAs claim the Governor used the project to hoodwink city residents after sacking Ms Ombara.

Female MCAs and other women leaders yesterday staged a demonstration against the governor for sacking Ombara, saying the  project was non-existent.

Led by Shauri Moyo MCA Prisca Auma, the leaders claimed Ombara's removal was a scheme to loot from the city.

Ms Auma said women leaders in the county would not allow the governor to interfere with the running of donor-funded projects in the county.

She said Ranguma's move was a clear indication that he was not interested in the female votes.

"The Lake Front Project stalled many years ago after those funding it pulled out, and the governor should not take us for a ride over its existence. Ombara must be reinstated back to the city," said Auma.

She added: "We want the governor to state clearly his motive in transferring Ombara. She was doing a good job and we have experienced the effectiveness of her leadership. Her removal was malicious."

Nominated MCA Carolyne Ogot accused the governor of running a one-man show in the affairs of the county.

"There are procedures of removing someone from their post. You cannot wake up one morning and remove a public officer from their docket without even consulting the other arms of government," said Ms Ogot.

In response to the claims, Ranguma, through his communication office, said last week's announcement of the long-overdue commencement of construction of a modern Sh14 billion port was a big step in realising the LFDUR project.

"The county government has even signed a memorandum of understanding with foreign investors and the Kenya Maritime Authority for financing of the project. The Sh600 million expansion of Kisumu International Airport was part of this project," read the statement.