Truck drivers from Kondele in Kisumu have protested the exclusion of their trucks in the ongoing construction of the new bus terminus at Molem in the outskirts of Kisumu city.
The drivers drove over 20 trucks to Prosperity House gate where Governor Jack Ranguma’s office is located seeking audience after they accused some of their representatives of hoodwinking them.
Led by their representative, Michael Osimbo, the drivers said they want the contractor constructing the terminus to use their trucks in transporting the debris and other duties.
Osimbo said the contractor has brought in over 20 trucks from Nairobi and in the wake of devolution, trucks from Kisumu County should be given first priority.
“We have over 50 trucks in Kisumu and we are wondering why the contractor is ferrying trucks from as far as Nairobi to came and carry debris from the construction site, we should be sub-contracted,” he said.
The drivers said they lack jobs and feel left out in the job opportunity for the construction of the terminus.
Police officers pleaded with them to remove the trucks that were now blocking the entrance to Prosperity House and allowed four of their officials to go seek audience with the governor.
However, Ranguma was reported to be out of office and they were referred to the executive member in charge of transport.
“We will ensure that we meet Ranguma himself to address our concern because some of our officials have been coming to his office and instead of championing our rights they get bribed to drop the demands,” said Osimbo.