By MN Reporter

Homa Bay county political activists have threatened to sue the Coca-Cola company for destroying the holy ‘bongu’ wich they said have plunged Nyanza in woes including poor devolution record.

Speaking to Migori News, the group said a pickup vehicle the beverage maker Kisii Bottlers branch destroyed the tree in Homa Bay which was planted by ODM leader Raila Odinga.

Drawn from Homa Bay Bunge la Wenye Nchi, the group said on May 25, 2017 a staff of the beverage maker driving an Isuzu pickup destroyed the three years old tree.

“The tree was planted on August 2, 2014 by Raila Odinga in presence of local elders which was to help usher in the new devolved system of government,” Walter Opiyo, the chairperson of the bunge said.

The tree called in Luo as Bongu has a scientific name of Ficus Sycamorus, which is a traditional fig tree which has been based in Luo culture.

“Residents from Luo counties of Migori, Homa Bay, Kisumu and Siaya have complained of slow impact of devolution compared to other counties because the tree was destroyed,” Opiyo said.

The group reported the matter to Homa Bay police station under OB no 16/25/3/2017 and attempts by the staff to bring a replica failed to impress the bunge which forced them to seek accessment by Kenya Forest Services.

“The tree was damaged beyond sprouting ability as evident from a stump and stem remnants,” David Augo, the Homa Bay sub-county forest officer said in the September 10, 2017 assessment.

On a letter dated September 11, 2017 to Kisii bottlers the group demanded Sh68,024 as cost done by forestry assessment.

“Ever since the company has failed to settle the matter, we will move to court and drag in Raila Odinga as an interested party,” Michael Otieno, the bunge clerk said.

The two said the Bongu tree latex is used to treat burns and cracked skin, barks can treat snake bite while boiled root is used to treat lungs and breathing problems.