Gem MP, Elisha Ochieng Odhiambo, has called on the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) appointees to the cabinet to use their positions to bring about positive changes in the lives of Kenyans. Welcoming President William Ruto’s recent appointment of ODM members into his cabinet, Odhiambo highlighted the critical nature of the dockets assigned to the nominees from the opposition party, emphasizing their potential impact on citizens if managed effectively.
Speaking at Nyawara Girls Secondary School in Central Gem location, Odhiambo joined the school community for a luncheon celebrating the institution’s excellent performance in last year’s Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education examinations. He particularly commended Treasury Cabinet Secretary nominee John Mbadi and his Energy counterpart Opiyo Wandayi, noting that their roles are clearly defined and essential.
Odhiambo expressed his commitment to ensuring that Parliament approves their appointments. “The dockets that ODM members have been given are critical. If used well, they can change lives in our communities,” he stated.
Highlighting the importance of the Treasury docket, Odhiambo emphasized that Mbadi must ensure timely disbursement of funds to the counties. “ODM has been at the forefront of championing devolution. It is up to him to fulfill our party’s promise and manifesto by ensuring that money is disbursed on time,” he said. Odhiambo also pointed out the need for Mbadi to work towards stabilizing the shilling against the dollar and other international currencies.
In the energy sector, Odhiambo noted that CS nominee Opiyo Wandayi has the task of addressing the uneven rural electrification distribution that has left the Nyanza region behind. “Last year’s energy sector survey revealed that Nyanza has an electricity distribution coverage of between 30-40%, while other areas such as Central have a coverage of between 90-100%,” he said. Odhiambo urged Wandayi to ensure that constituencies in Nyanza catch up with the rest of the country.
The MP praised President Ruto’s appointments as a positive sign of a cohesive society, where all Kenyans feel included and represented.
