A fierce fallout has erupted within a powerful cartel linked to Busia Governor Paul Otuoma after a Sh2 million kickback meant to be shared among his allies allegedly disappeared under mysterious circumstances.
Sources privy to the saga claim the bribe, which was paid by a road contractor operating in the county, was handed to the governor’s brother, Victor Otuoma, with the understanding that it would be distributed among key insiders. However, instead of disbursing the cash, Victor allegedly claimed he had channeled the entire sum to Governor Otuoma’s 2027 re-election campaign kitty.
The explanation has sparked outrage among the governor’s inner circle, who now accuse Victor of pocketing the money. Tensions have been rising behind closed doors, with some allies questioning whether the money was ever banked or if the campaign kitty was merely a cover story.
Governor Otuoma is expected to seek a second term in 2027, but insiders admit his re-election is far from guaranteed. Already, credible challengers are lining up—including senior civil servant Arthur Osiya and Nairobi County Assembly Majority Leader Jateso Peter Imwatok, both of whom have political clout and grassroots appeal.
The fallout has exposed fractures in the once-tight-knit cartel that has dominated county operations. Faced with the possibility of losing power, sources say members of the group are hurriedly working on “Plan B” survival strategies—essentially securing financial fallbacks to cushion themselves in the event Otuoma is voted out.
“Everyone is watching their back now,” said a source familiar with the wrangles. “The idea is: if he loses, don’t be left stranded.”
The infighting comes amid ongoing investigations by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) into alleged irregular hiring in the county government. The commission recently summoned 39 officials, including directors and deputy directors, to its regional office at Daima Plaza in Bungoma for questioning.
Among those grilled were Brian Odekeyo, Margaret Okumu, Hudson Sireka, and several other top-ranking officers accused of involvement in questionable recruitment practices. The EACC is said to be zeroing in on appointments believed to have been influenced by nepotism and patronage.
Victor Otuoma, the governor’s brother and director of sports, is also under the spotlight. He has reportedly played a key role in staffing decisions and is accused of using his influence to favour individuals from Samia South, Otuoma’s home turf, which now dominates key departments including budgeting, drug control, and audit.
Despite mounting scandals, the governor’s office has remained tight-lipped on the matter. Efforts to reach Victor for comment were unsuccessful.
As the political temperature in Busia heats up, observers say the scandals could significantly weaken Otuoma’s re-election bid, especially if rivals seize on the narrative of corruption, cronyism, and broken trust within his own ranks.
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