Business at Malaba town paralyzed after residents lock out Municipality Manager

Teso,

Friday, December 1, 2023

KNA by Absalom Namwalo

Business at the border town of Malaba was paralyzed today morning after angry residents locked the gate to the municipality office to protest against the newly appointed municipality manager.

The business community led by Okoit Etyang have vowed not to open the premises urging the EACC and DCI to probe the circumstances that led to the appointment of Francis Asoyong.

Residents are now faulting Busia governor for derailing full operations citing interest in a World Bank project fund to be channeled to the municipality January next year.

“The entire recruitment process by Busia Public Service board was characterized by corruption and nepotism. We urge EACC and DCI to move with speed and investigate this scam,” said Etyang.

Traders have vowed not to pay taxes to the county government of Busia until the matter is addressed and the right board manager put in place.

The same sentiments were echoed by Desmond Obunga who warned the World-Bank officials of impending corruption from the county executive.

“There is conflict of interest from Busia executives in the funds to be channeled to Malaba municipality. The governor is forcing rules and order down our throat contrary to World-Bank policy of operation,” noted Obunga.

The residents want Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah to intervene in the matter for smooth running of the municipality.

It took the intervention of police to restore order even as the efforts by the press to reach out to Municipality Board officials proved futile.

Courtesy; KNA