An economic survey released last week has ignited sharp debate in Nyamira, forcing Governor John Nyagarama to issue a rejoinder, disputing the figures.
Nyamira County was ranked the worst in terms of Gross County Product, with statistics showing that her economy shrunk by 5.4 per cent, an indication that life is difficult in the South Nyanza County.
“Per capita GCP is a measure of a county’s economic output shared equally among its population. It is an indicative measure of a county’s standard of living and is derived by dividing a county’s GCP by its total population,” the survey explains in part.
For years, the county has struggled to effectively pool resources for major economic stimulation, with Governor John Nyagarama often accused of nepotism, grand theft and maladministration.
But a statement issued by Director of Communications Kefa Miller contradicts the latest survey. The county government accuses the surveyors of malicious intent.
"In February, we were ranked position 20, how we dropped in two months is a miracle. The survey isn't authentic and could have been released for political reasons," read the statement.
A report released by the county assembly budget committee shows that Sh5.2 billion goes for recurrent expenditures, with very little meant for development. More often than not, the development money is not absorbed by the departmentsdoor for unknown reasons.
A couple weeks ago, Governor John Nyagarama sent payroll staff for a three-month compulsory leave to pave way for payroll audit. It has been established that several people were recruited with due process.