By MN Reporter

Migori deputy governor Nelson Mwita Mahanga has said despite challenges facing his boss Okoth Obado there is no leadership and political vacuum in the county.

“Let Kenyans know we don’t have any power vacuum in Migori, and Obado has been away for less than a week,” Mahanga said.

He said Migori will continue to function as “we have a robust county executive committee meetings and our development agenda is on line.”

On Thursday, Obado and ten others including his four children were charged with 28 counts of economic crime, money laundering and conflict of interest for fraudulently acquiring Ksh.73.4 million from the County Government of Migori.

The money was acquired when Obado was in office between 2013 and 2017.

Appearing before Senior Principal Magistrate Lawrence Mugambi, Obado and his co-accused denied all charges and will again appear on Monday for a ruling on bail application.

Speaking to the press at Bogembo SDA Church on Saturday, Mahanga called on his boss to remain strong as political lives have ups and downs.

“I tell Obado to remain strong, right now he is at his low moment. I know he will emerge stronger,” he said.

 “I know the truth will be uncovered is the law is followed in spirit and letter, the legal process will prove the truth which will set Obado free,” Mahanga said.

Samburu governor Moses Lenolkulal and former Kiambu governor Ferdinand Waititu were barred from accessing their office when they faced similar charges.

Mahanga said because of ill health he has been away from the public limelight and office, but said he was now improving and called on residents and media to avoid speculation.

“I have been away because of ill health, and it is only now that I am able to rise. And I want to assure residents that our development agenda will still move on,” Mahanga said.

He termed as cordial his working relation with Obado which saw him being picked again as his deputy.