Leaders in Kenya, led by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, have strongly criticized Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka for questioning the recent bonus payouts to sugarcane farmers. This backlash follows President William Ruto’s announcement of a Ksh 150 million bonus for farmers supplying cane to Mumias Sugar Factory, a significant step in reviving the struggling sugar sector in Western Kenya.
Speaking at Kinjavi market in Busia County, Wetangula dismissed Kalonzo’s remarks as “misplaced,” arguing that they disregard the plight of struggling cane farmers. He emphasized that Kalonzo should steer clear of matters he does not fully understand, especially given the historical challenges faced by sugarcane growers. “Cane farmers are entitled to bonuses just like their coffee and tea counterparts,” Wetangula affirmed, questioning why Kalonzo only criticizes sugarcane bonuses while remaining silent on similar payments to tea and coffee farmers.
President Ruto also defended the initiative, stating that the funds for bonuses across agricultural sectors come from the same source. He criticized Kalonzo for casting doubt on the payouts, warning that such negativity could derail efforts to revive the sugar industry. Ruto highlighted that the initiative aims to improve the livelihoods of farmers who have suffered due to the collapse of several cane-crushing companies
Other leaders joined in condemning Kalonzo’s stance, including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Cooperative Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya, and Busia Governor Dr. Paul Otuoma. They accused Kalonzo of engaging in divisive politics instead of supporting efforts to uplift farmers. Dr. Otuoma expressed disappointment over Kalonzo’s remarks, calling them disrespectful to farmers who are finally receiving long-overdue support.
The bonus payout has been widely welcomed by farmers and local leaders as a motivator for cane growers in the region. However, Kalonzo and Mumias East MP Peter Salasya have questioned the transparency of the funds, arguing that they were not part of the national budget. This debate underscores ongoing political tensions surrounding agricultural policies and efforts to revive Kenya’s ailing sugar sector.
During his tour of Busia County, President Ruto inspected key development projects, including the construction of Nesewa Export Processing Zone (EPZ) and an industrial park in Busia County. He also launched the Last Mile Electricity Connectivity project, underscoring his administration’s commitment to regional development.
