Stop cheap Nzoia politics and focus on farmers welfare, Lusaka tells leaders

Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has called on political leaders to stop engaging in what he termed as “cheap politics” over the leasing of Nzoia Sugar Company, and instead focus on the welfare of farmers and factory workers who rely on the mill for their livelihoods.

Speaking during the funeral service of Mama Rhosa Makhandia, Lusaka expressed concern that some politicians were using the struggles of the ailing sugar factory for political mileage while those most affected — the farmers and employees — continue to suffer.

“It is unfortunate that year in and year out, politicians use the misfortunes of Nzoia Sugar to gain cheap publicity. Meanwhile, our farmers remain unpaid and workers demoralized,” Lusaka said.

The governor took a swipe at former Cabinet Minister Eugene Wamalwa and other leaders who have voiced opposition to the proposed leasing, saying they were part of a task force that initially recommended the same approach.

“Politics aside, let us fix Nzoia Sugar. Our farmers are frustrated and workers are demoralized. We cannot afford to continue politicking while livelihoods are at stake,” he stated.

Lusaka warned against turning the factory into a political battleground, noting that such actions only worsen the situation for the thousands who depend on the mill.

“Nzoia’s revival requires the collective effort of all stakeholders. The longer we drag court cases and politicize the leasing process, the more we hurt the people we are supposed to serve,” he added.

Lusaka urged leaders and other stakeholders to refrain from pursuing numerous court cases, warning that such actions would only derail progress and cause further suffering for farmers.

“Let us drop these court cases and allow farmers to benefit from the new developments,” he said
The governor’s remarks come amid renewed debate over the future of Nzoia Sugar, one of the key economic lifelines in the Western region.