Siaya journalist installed as Uranga Assistant Chief

A Siaya-based journalist has been installed as Uranga sub-location Assistant Chief after he emerged as the best candidate in an interview that attracted nine candidates.

Vitalis Otunga, the ex-reporter for Tembea Radio, was installed as Uranga Assistant Chief in a ceremony held at Onding primary school grounds in Siaya.

Otunga whose bid was endorsed by Gem Member of Parliament (MP) Elisha Odhiambo will now cease being a journalist as he takes over his new role.

The former journalist was installed by Gem Wagai DCC Evans Otieno who asked him to roll his sleeves and work for the residents.

"You have your tray full of concerns of Uranga residents, kindly don't be their boss but a servant. The people of Uranga have not been able to access administrative services for months so put up your administrative committee and get to work," Otieno said.

He noted that the Uranga sub-location has been listed as notorious for its changaa drinking dens and expressed that he was hoping to wipe them out within three weeks since they hinder the area from having a sober society.

"It's so sad to note that drinking dens extend to homes adjacent to Onding primary school. Recently invigilators and security officers left the station when pupils were doing exams and were found in a drinking den enjoying changaa," Otieno said.

"So many bad things have happened in this area and now that we have an assistant chief, we will work closely with him to bring order in his jurisdiction. We have also noticed absenteeism and high dropout among pupils and students in East Gem ward that must stop now," he added.

The DCC also advised Otunga not to engage in corruption while discharging his duties adding that matters lands are so emotive and he should handle them justly.

"We have gone through your track record and found it clean, do not soil it. The job you have taken is handled professionally and it's full of accountability. Ensure your judgements are done fairly if not, you will meet the wrath of those celebrating you today. In case you have a case touching your family kindly notify your supervisor and step aside," he added.

Otieno further appealed to the public to support Otunga arguing that he may not be in every part of the sub-location.

"An assistant chief cannot work alone, he needs your support, he cannot be everywhere in the administrative unit," the DCC said.

On his part, Otunga who was addressing Uranga residents, promised to effectively discharge his duties and vowed to work closely with the office of the MP in matters of public interest.

"It's true am from the media field and will now use the same vigour used to get news to push for services and goods that stand to benefit the residents. I can't single-handedly deliver services that's why I need your cooperation and support and together we can achieve development," he added.

On his part, MP Elisha welcomed Otunga's idea and expressed excitement that he would deliver to the residents.

"As an MP, I am happy when every part of Gem grows so Otunga, should see to it that orphans benefit from nursery. My office will work closely with Otunga for the residents to gain. The other sub-location not having assistant chiefs will also form part of my agenda. I will pursue the issues with those concerned so that the slots get filled," he said.

Siaya County Press Club chairman Philip Onyango asked Otunga not to be a difficult source but to be ready to avail information to journalists.