Residents of Bumula staged protests on Thursday demanding the reinstatement of their Member of Parliament, Jack Wamboka as the Chairperson of the Public Investments Committee (PIC) following his recent suspension over alleged graft concerns.
The demonstrations which swept through various market centers in Bungoma drew a large crowd of residents and youths who expressed dissatisfaction with what they termed as a politically motivated decision.
While carrying placards and chanting slogans in support of the embattled MP the protesters insisted that Wamboka’s removal from the influential parliamentary committee was unjustified and aimed at silencing dissenting voices.
Speaking to the press during the protest at Kabula market on Thursday, Edwin Wafula criticized the decision to suspend the MP linking it to his vocal opposition to the Kenya Kwanza government.
Among the things the MP has opposed the government include the controversial leasing of Nzoia Sugar Company, the Construction of the Level VI hospital in Sichei Kabuchai and the construction of the Smart city at Bungoma airstrip.
Wafula argued that Wamboka has consistently stood firm in defending the interests of his constituents and questioning policies that he believes are detrimental to the common mwananchi.
“This move is not about accountability but politics,” Wafula said.
He added, “Our MP has been very vocal in opposing certain government policies and now he is being punished for speaking the truth. We want him reinstated immediately,”
Wafula further emphasized that Wamboka has demonstrated exceptional leadership, particularly in the education sector within Bumula constituency.
He cited various development initiatives including the improvement of school infrastructure, support for needy students through bursaries and increased advocacy for better learning conditions.
“Our MP has done a lot for education in this constituency. Many schools have benefited and students are now accessing better opportunities. Removing him from such a critical oversight role undermines the good work he has been doing,” he added.
The protesters also argued that the allegations against Wamboka should be thoroughly investigated but not used as a basis for immediate removal without due process.
They insisted that justice must be fair and transparent, warning against what they described as selective targeting of leaders perceived to be critical of the government.
They also raised concerns about what they termed as a growing pattern of intimidation against leaders associated with the “Linda Mwananchi” movement.
Wafula cited the recent incident involving Godfrey Otsosi, the Senator for Vihiga County who was reportedly attacked by an armed gang.
“We are seeing a worrying trend where leaders who speak for the people are being targeted. The attack on Senator Otsosi is a clear indication that there is an attempt to silence voices that challenge the status quo,” Wafula claimed.
According to the demonstrators, such incidents not only threaten democracy but also instill fear among leaders who wish to advocate for the rights of their constituents.
They further called on security agencies to thoroughly investigate the attack on Otsosi and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
