New Kisii Deputy Governor sworn-in

By Peter Ochieng

Elijah Obebo was on Monday sworn-in as the third Kisii County Deputy Governor (DG). The event was staged at the Gusii Stadium.

He replaces Robert Monda who was impeached in early 2024, after various allegations among them corruption were levelled against him, and satisfactorily proven before the Senate.

The former DG was accused of gross violation of the Constitution and law, abuse of office, gross misconduct, and crimes under national law, becoming the first deputy governor to be impeached.

The Kisii County Assembly accused Monda of soliciting a bribe of Sh800,000 from locals, to help him secure a job for his son. “By virtue of the Deputy governor requesting and receiving a bribe of sh800,00 he is in breach of the provisions of Article 232 which obligates public officers to observe the values and principles of public service," the charges read in part.

He denied all the charges against him. Obebo who previously served as the County Public Service Board Chair, is the third Kisii County Deputy governor after Monda and his predecessor Joash Maangi.

Obebo in his inaugural address thanked Kisii governor Paul Simba Arati for a vote of confidence, through his appointment, vetting and subsequent swearing-in. "I thank you for finding me suitable to be your principal assistant and your confidant. As I take charge of this confidence you have bestowed on me, I promise to undertake and be your loyal lieutenant," he said.

"This is a testament that any child can become whatever they want with hard work, integrity, and resilience.”

"I reiterate my commitment, dedication, and goodwill to deliver all your manifesto and vision for a great Kisii County,” he added.

After the County Assembly approved Obebo’s nomination as the next Deputy Governor, Jared Mairura Ratemo, a resident of Kisii moved to the High Court to challenge the Senate's decision to impeach Dr. Monda.

However, on March 28th, 2024, the petitioner withdrew the matter, paving the way for Obebo’s swearing in.