The rivalry between Migori Governor Okoth Obado and Senator Ochillo Ayacko has split the county assembly, with talks of Obado’s impeachment re-emerging.
The two politicians have differed over corruption in the devolved government. Last week, Mr Ayacko fanned the political fire when he organised a meeting with a group of ward representatives “to familiarise himself with the county assembly”.
Mr Obado’s aides attempted to dissuade the leaders from attending the meeting.
“I was impressed with the turnout from Kuria. What I have gathered is that representatives from the other areas of the county regions were threatened,” Mr Ayacko told journalists in Rongo on Friday.
He added that officials threatened to withhold ward funds if the leaders attended the meeting.
The senator said he organised the meeting to see what can be done “since the theft of public funds in Migori is rampant”.
“The Auditor-General’s report is a just tip of the iceberg. If you carry out a forensic audit in the devolved government, you will cry for our beloved county,” he added.
Mr Ayacko said his interaction with ward representatives would empower them to carry out their oversight role.
“My office will ensure you have the knowledge to scrutinise the use of public funds,” the senator said.
Mr Obado, who is charged with the murder of his girlfriend and their unborn child, is wary of the decision by the senator to engage the ward representatives.
The body of Sharon Otieno, a Rongo University student, was found in Kodero forest, Homa Bay County in early September.
Mr Obado’s handlers say the senator is behind the move to have him impeached by the assembly.
The latest dispute between the two leaders has split the county assembly.