Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya now says that plans to host Congolese Rhumba musician Koffi Olomide are on course.
The County Government of Kakamega has since contracted the controversial Lingala maestro to entertain visitors and residents during the Fifth Annual Devolution Conference set for the county on April 24 at the Bukhungu Stadium.
The plans are, however, yet to be approved by the Immigration Ministry which maintains that Olomide remains unwelcome in the country following his deportation in July 2016.
Speaking on Radio Citizen on Friday, however, Oparanya said that his office is consulting with the ministry to sort out the differences in a move that could see Olomide back to the country after the earlier unceremonious exit.
''We are ready to host him and Kakamega residents are very excited despite the challenge we are facing from the Immigration department. My office has been in constant consultations with the ministry to enable us to facilitate his smooth entry,'' said the Governor.
He added that his government will be forced to seek alternatives should the ministry stand its ground.
''In the event that our efforts fail, we will look for another musician to fill the gap,'' he disclosed.
Olomide who was deported for kicking one of his dancers at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) has since confirmed his performance.