Lusaka challenges opposition over proposed Lamu refinery project
Hon. Kenneth Lusaka, Governor Bungoma county speaking at a previous event photo/file
Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has challenged opposition leaders to stop politicising the proposed Lamu Refinery Development Project, saying the investment could create jobs, stimulate economic activity and improve livelihoods.
Lusaka speaking on Sunday during the Shinyalu FKF football tournament finals, urged political leaders to put national interests ahead of partisan politics when addressing major development projects.
“For Kenya to grow, we must welcome transformative investments that create jobs, stimulate economic activity and improve the livelihoods of our people, irrespective of our political affiliations,” Lusaka said.
The governor argued that strategic investments should be assessed based on their potential contribution to the economy rather than being turned into political battlegrounds.
Lusaka, who is also President William Ruto’s Western Kenya Presidential Re-election Coordinator, used the event to defend the President’s development record and mobilise support for his re-election ahead of the 2027 General Election.
He cited infrastructure projects in Bungoma and the wider Western Kenya region, saying they would improve connectivity and create opportunities for economic growth.
Among the projects he highlighted were the Standard Gauge Railway extension through Myanga in Bumula, the Lunakwe Energy Centre, the Rironi-Mau Summit-Malaba dual carriageway and the Malakisi Bridge.
Lusaka said the projects demonstrated the government’s focus on improving infrastructure while creating an environment for businesses and other economic activities to thrive.
He challenged opposition leaders to present alternative development programmes, saying political competition should focus on tangible plans for improving the lives of Kenyans rather than political rhetoric.
The governor also urged Western Kenya residents to support continuity in government, arguing that this would allow ongoing development projects to continue and support the wider economic transformation agenda.
His remarks came as political leaders increasingly position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election, with development projects expected to feature prominently in political debates.
The Shinyalu FKF tournament finals brought together local football players, supporters and political leaders, providing a platform for discussions on youth development, sports and national development.
The event was also attended by Shinyalu MP Fred Ikana.
