DAP-K party leader Eugene Wamalwa has announced that he will join sugarcane farmers on Monday, May 12, in a protest against the recent leasing of Nzoia Sugar Company to businessman Jaswant Rai.
Speaking during a late-night interview on a local vernacular radio station, Wamalwa said the demonstration will be the mother of all demos and called on residents of Bungoma and surrounding areas to turn up in large numbers.
He criticised the move by the government to hand over the factory without consulting key stakeholders, saying it puts the region’s economy and the livelihoods of farmers at risk.
“We must protect what is ours. If we remain silent, Nzoia Sugar will be gone for the next 30 years,” Wamalwa warned.
Several other leaders have confirmed participation in the protest, including Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, who recently vowed not to sit back and watch the company be sold to a private investor at a throwaway price.
Other leaders joining the protests
Bumula MP Jack Wamboka, Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale, former Senator Cleophas Malala, and Kabuchai MP Majimbo Kalasinga are also expected to join.
Wamalwa further stated that those in government only respond to pressure from the streets. He cited the Moi era, when sustained public protests led to the repeal of Section 2a and the return of multiparty democracy.
“Change has always come through struggle. This is one of those moments,” he said.
The protest comes at a time when Nzoia Sugar is facing serious challenges. Operations at the miller have stalled, and farmers have not been paid for cane delivered over the years.
The government has since placed the company under receivership, drawing anger from local leaders and the farming community.
Wamalwa revealed that there was a court order blocking the takeover by Rai, which he said the businessman ignored.
“We will camp at the company’s gate together with our lawyers, with the court order. Rai must respect court order,” said Eugene Wamalwa while speaking in vernacular.
Who is Jaswant Rai?
Jaswant Rai is a prominent businessman with interests in several sectors. He owns West Kenya Sugar, Naitiri Sugar, Rai Cement, Timesales, Menengai Oilers in Nakuru, and is also the man behind the revival of the former Pan Paper Mills, now operating as Rai Papers in Webuye.
