Senator Wakoli with the Bungoma contractors on Thursday…Photo/IP.
Senator meets disgruntled contractors, pledges fight for timely pay and fairness
By IP reporter.
BUNGOMA, Kenya
Bungoma Senator David Wafula Wakoli has thrown his weight behind local contractors who staged protests this week, promising to fight for their rights and demand timely payments from county authorities.
Wakoli met with leaders of the Bungoma Contractors Association on Thursday evening, a day after they took to the streets over what they termed crippling delays in payments for completed projects.
“Behind every voice was the pain of delayed pay, the struggle for fairness and the desire to serve our people with dignity,” Wakoli said after the meeting.
“I want them to know that I will not relent. I will fight for their rights, for timely payments, for fair opportunities and for the quality service our people deserve.”
The contractors said delayed payments had pushed many to the brink of financial collapse with some facing threats of property auction over unpaid loans.
Wakoli, who has previously faulted county officials over accountability and stalled projects, said he would escalate the issue to ensure transparency and fairness in public contracting.
“Together we will restore hope and fairness in this journey of service,” he said.
The Bungoma protest reflects a wider outcry by contractors across several counties who accuse devolved governments of dragging their feet on pending bills despite assurances from the Treasury.
Ends.
