Kitale: Obiri Vetted For Trans-Nzoia Roads Big Job

A former teacher and politician appeared before the Trans Nzoia County Assembly Appointment Committee on Friday for vetting.

Zablon Obiri, 63, was nominated by Governor George Natembeya two weeks ago to take up the position of CECM for Roads, and his name was presented to the County Assembly for approval.

Obiri, who holds a Diploma in Education, said he qualifies for the job because of his experience as a teacher, having taught in various schools before resigning in 2017.

 He taught Kiswahili and CRE.

Despite not being an engineer, the nominee defended himself, saying he would provide leadership and policy direction. 

He indicated that, if given the opportunity, he would collaborate with technical officers in the department to deliver services.

The nomination of Obiri follows reports that the current CECM, Channelle Kittony, did not apply for the renewal of her contract.

Leader of Minority and Saboti MCA, Boniface Cheloti, asked the nominee to clarify whether he was aware of the qualifications required for the position.

“I am aware and equal to the task. I have experience. I did well at Kapenguria Boys School, which was my last station before resigning in 2017 to vie for the Kwanza MCA seat, though I was not successful,” Obiri told the appointment committee.

He assured the MCAs that he would utilize the budget prudently by ensuring that road repairs and construction projects are completed to the required standards.

The vetting comes a week after four new CECMs took the oath of office to serve in different dockets as part of Governor Natembeya’s effort to reconstitute his government. 

They are Robert Wamalwa (Water and Environment), Kerio Lorot (Health), Pius Gumo (Lands), and Eliud Tormoi (Gender and Youth Affairs).

The CECMs who have applied for contract renewal are Phanice Khatundi (Agriculture), Janerose Mutama (Education), Pepela Wanjala (Finance), Patrick Gacheru (Trade), Sam Ojwang (PSM), and Stanley Kirui (formerly Gender and Youth Affairs). 

The discretion of their approval or rejection, however, lies with the governor.