A section of the bridge connecting Kombewa to Bodi Centers that was swept away after heavy rains |Photo file|
Residents of Central Seme in Seme Constituency, Kisumu County, are demanding urgent intervention from their leaders after heavy rains swept away a critical bridge connecting Kombewa Center and Bodi Center.
The damaged bridge has rendered roads inaccessible, sparking outrage and protests against their area Member of Parliament, Dr. James Nyikal, whom they accuse of neglecting infrastructure development for the past three years.
Speaking during the protests, community leader John Ochieng announced plans for a public hearing scheduled for December 9, 2024, to address the crisis.
“We have endured years of empty promises. This time, we demand a lasting solution. We are inviting all local leaders to a serious meeting on the 9th of this month,” Ochieng stated.
Farmers and traders in the region are particularly affected by the poor road network. Victor Otieno, a sugarcane farmer, lamented the loss of his plantation, which he depended on for livelihood and school fees for his children.
“This plantation has been my lifeline. Now it’s gone, and I don’t know how I’ll pay my children’s school fees. Unfortunately, this is happening when our MP rides in luxury vehicles, ignoring the plight of the constituents,” Otieno said.
Similarly, a local business trader expressed fear and frustration over the unsafe roads, which have hampered transportation of goods.
“Our businesses are suffering. We fear for our lives and our goods, yet the leaders we elected prioritize their interests over ours,” he remarked.
The residents are calling on Dr. Nyikal to take immediate action to address the infrastructural crisis and provide a permanent solution to the recurring problem.
Efforts by The Nyanza Review reporters to reach Dr. Nyikal for comment were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to calls or messages.
