Kisumu East parliamentary seat aspirant Shadrack Okinda has vowed to push for the revitalisation of the sugar sector so that it benefits farmers in the constituency.

Speaking at a funeral in Kajulu, Mr Okinda noted that, although Kibos Sugar was operational, farmers’ earnings had not been optimised, and he promised to change the status quo.

“I want to say that our processing plant, Kibos, will operate optimally to the benefit of our people,” he stated.

He also promised to ensure that refuse from the plant does not pollute the river on which locals depend.

“Kibos firm is our own, and the river is also ours. We must find a way for the two to work without interference,” he added.

Turning to the clergy in the constituency, Mr Okinda assured them that they would be put on his payroll once he was elected.

“All the clergy will be on payroll once I get the opportunity to serve you as your next lawmaker. The clergy play an important role of teaching us the word of God, while leaders teach us the law,” he said.

On the issue of goons in the Nyanza region, Mr Okinda called on youths to avoid being manipulated by politicians, arguing that better leaders would do the opposite.

“In some places, leaders are helping young people start businesses, but in Nyanza, politicians are distributing pangas and arrows for the youths to fight and kill each other. This is why I call upon you to elect leaders, not politicians,” he said.

“Today, I walked here without goons. That should show you my intentions as a leader who intends to change things in Kisumu East.”