Kisumu County Secretary sworn in, urged to serve diligently

By Peter Ochieng

The new Kisumu County Secretary has taken oath of office.

Hesbon Hongo was sworn in on Friday, during a ceremony witnessed by Kisumu governor Anyang' Nyong'o and his deputy, Mathews Ochieng Owili among others.

Nyong'o challenged the incoming County Secretary and other public servants to strive towards diligently serving members of the public.

"You have been given this opportunity so that you can serve the people, not service to self," said Nyong'o.

With three years left to go before the 2027 general elections, Nyong'o said public servants have a huge role to play in delivering their mandate to the people.

"If you run and don't finish well, there is no need to start running in the first place."

His sentiments were echoed by Owili who challenged county employees to put their best feat foward, so that Nyong'o finishes his second and last term strongly.

"Our governor has always finished strongly. He finished strongly as an MP, as a minister and as a Senator. He must finish strongest as the governor," said the DG.

Hongo, Owili added, is akin to a football player introduced in the dying minutes of the game to save his team.

"Consider yourself one of those star players introduced in a game to make a difference," stated Owili.

"We have three years to go. You are coming in with a new energy. Let your presence be felt."

The DG added that he is banking on Hongo to deliver.

"With a distinguished track record in public service, I am confident that his leadership will be a tremendous asset in advancing our shared mission for the county."

The new County Secretary pledged to serve diligently.

Hongo replaces John Auma who was sacked in March this year, barely a year after assuming office.