Bungoma Gubernatorial candidate Alfred Khang’ati
By Alex Wekesa | IP Desk
BUNGOMA
Former Kanduyi Member of Parliament Alfred Khang’ati and 2027 Gubernatorial Candidate has faulted former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati over the construction of the 6.5-kilometre Musikoma–Kanduyi dual carriageway, accusing him of misusing county funds on what he described as a misplaced development priority.
The dual carriageway — a 6.5-kilometre section of the C33 road linking Sang’alo Junction on the Kakamega–Bungoma highway to Kanduyi Junction on the Malaba–Eldoret highway — was awarded to Zhongmei Engineering Group Ltd under contract No. BGM/CNTY/OT/RPW/184/2018-2019.
The project’s original contract sum was KSh 1.382 billion, and construction was expected to take 24 months.
According to an ad-hoc committee report, by 2023 the total amount paid to the contractor stood at KSh 1,050,623,080, while pending bills amounted to KSh 544,899,240, including KSh 108,597,364 in interest and delayed-payment claims.
Khang’ati described the project as a “misappropriated ideology,” alleging that Wangamati’s administration diverted county funds to finance what was initially a national government project.
He argued that such resources should have been directed toward improving rural feeder roads, which remain in poor condition, particularly during the rainy season.
“That money could have been used to improve infrastructure in rural areas where roads remain impassable, especially during the rainy season,” Khang’ati said.
The former legislator further accused Wangamati’s administration of focusing on “cosmetic projects” while neglecting essential sectors such as health, agriculture and education.
Wangamati, who served as Bungoma Governor from 2017 to 2022, lost his seat to his predecessor Kenneth Lusaka in the 2022 General Election.
He has since declared his intention to contest again in 2027, setting the stage for a potential rematch.
Khang’ati, who has also announced his interest in the 2027 gubernatorial race, dismissed Wangamati’s comeback bid, insisting that Bungoma needs a leader with a clear development agenda and proven experience in public service.
“Wangamati had his chance and failed to deliver. Bungoma needs a leader who is visionary, development-oriented and willing to sacrifice for the people. I believe I am best suited for that responsibility,” Khang’ati said while drumming up support for his bid.
Khang’ati highlighted his record as Kanduyi MP (2007–2013), during which he spearheaded key development projects including the establishment of Mechimeru Sub-County Hospital, the founding of Kibabii University and the expansion of rural electrification, connecting hundreds of households to the national grid.
He also served as an Assistant Minister in the national government and later as a Board Member of Nzoia Sugar Company, where he served until the company was leased to a private investor.
He emphasized the need for women and youth empowerment, calling on county leaders to adopt technology-driven service delivery to enhance transparency and accelerate development.
Jimmy Nduruchi, a Bungoma-based businessman and philanthropist, backed Khang’ati’s sentiments, saying the county must learn from past mistakes and prioritize projects that directly impact livelihoods.
“We cannot afford to repeat past mistakes. Development should be people-centered, focusing on improving livelihoods and essential services,” Nduruchi said.
Nduruchi, who has also expressed interest in the 2027 Bungoma gubernatorial race, is emerging as another strong contender, known for his grassroots engagements and philanthropic activities across the county.
As the race gathers momentum, the list of potential candidates for the Bungoma governorship now includes:
Wycliffe Wangamati – Former governor seeking a comeback after his 2022 defeat.
Tim Wanyonyi – Westlands MP who has publicly declared his interest.
Didmus Barasa – Kimilili MP and a strong political mobiliser.
Alfred Khang’ati – Former Kanduyi MP and ex-Assistant Minister positioning himself as a reformist.
Jimmy Nduruchi – Businessman and philanthropist focusing on grassroots empowerment.
Zacharia Baraza – Technocrat and development advocate.
With new entrants and shifting alliances, the Bungoma gubernatorial contest is shaping up to be one of the most competitive races ahead of the 2027 General Election, as residents weigh leadership based on integrity, performance and inclusivity.
