Vihiga: Governor Dr Wilber Khasilwa Ottichilo has presided over the swearing-in of Ad-hoc Committees for Luanda and Cheptulu towns, marking a significant step in their journey towards acquiring municipal status. The ceremony, held at the County Boardroom, was presided over by County Attorney Aggrey Musiega, while County Solicitor James Mukabi administered the oath of office to the newly appointed committee members. Each committee consists of seven individuals mandated to assess whether the two towns meet the legal criteria required for classification as municipalities.
According to Kenya News Agency, the evaluation process is grounded in Sections 8 and 9 of the Urban Areas and Cities Act, 2011. The Act stipulates that a town may be granted municipal status by the County Governor through the County Assembly, provided it fulfils key requirements such as population size, presence of critical infrastructure, and the capacity for self-governance.
In his address, Governor Ottichilo lauded the transformation witnessed in Luanda and Cheptulu over the past decade, particularly since the onset of devolution. 'In the last 12 years of devolution, Luanda and Cheptulu have witnessed tremendous development in terms of infrastructure and growth of businesses,' said the Governor. 'This progress is a clear indication that they are ready for municipal status.'
Highlighting Luanda's strategic role, the Governor reiterated its designation as the county's commercial hub. 'As a county, we have identified Luanda as our commercial town, and this is evidenced by the ongoing construction of the industrial park in the area,' he noted. He also recognized the catalytic role of Kaimosi Friends University in Cheptulu's urban development. 'The establishment and growth of Kaimosi Friends University has played a key role in opening up Cheptulu for rapid urban development,' he added.
Governor Ottichilo urged the committees to carry out their responsibilities with utmost professionalism and legal integrity. He emphasised that the proper classification of towns is essential for improved planning, effective service delivery, and increased access to national government resources.