The decision by Nyamira Governor John Nyagarama to enter the Gusii stadium on Saturday at least one hour after the arrival of chief guest Raila Odinga has caused online ridicule from a section of ODM supporters.
The Nyamira County boss reportedly arrived in Kisii town early but opted to wait at a hotel until the youth event that was grazed by former Prime Minister started.
In a hot debate on Sunday on Kisii Facebook Group, a number of supporters accused the Governor of seeking publicity ahead of the 2017 elections.
“It’s wrong to breach protocol by attending the event where a senior politician like Raila Odinga is several minutes after the kickoff. That was lack of respect and he should never repeat it again,” wrote John Omboto.
“It’s clear that Raila was the chief guest and therefore we expected all local leaders to settle before him. He was just seeking publicity which I believe he got,” added Joan Kerubo.
However, the communication department from the Governor’s office defended his actions terming them ‘orderly’ and urged residents to view it from a ‘broader’ picture.
“The Governor was among the invited guests meaning he was not playing host. He attended a church function and decided to honour the invite. He was much in order and his late coming is a non-issue,” read the statement.