Kenya Bunge La Mwananchi leader and Kondele Ward MCA aspirant Sospeter Obungu Owich has launched a scathing attack on Seme MP James Nyikal, urging him to retire from politics and give younger leaders a chance to serve.
Obungu accused Nyikal of presiding over what he described as unequal distribution of employment opportunities and leadership positions in Seme Sub-County, claiming that residents from some communities had been marginalised during the MP’s 15-year tenure.
Speaking at a funeral in Seme Sub-County, the outspoken aspirant declared that Nyikal’s time in office was up, insisting that the constituency needed fresh leadership and new energy.
“The seat was not made for one person. For 15 years and more, you have been there, with people hailing from your community occupying different positions. It is time to retire and go home,” Obungu said.
He claimed that several influential positions in the sub-county, including the roads committee chairperson, the assistant roads manager and the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) chairperson, were held by people from the Kaura community in West Seme.
According to Obungu, residents of Central Seme had not received a fair share of employment opportunities, alleging that their representation in the local administration had been reduced to a photography position held by one individual.
“The chairperson for roads comes from Kaura village in West Seme. The assistant roads manager also comes from West Seme, and the NG-CDF chairperson is from the same community,” he claimed.
Turning to residents of Central Seme, Obungu questioned whether the area had qualified young people who could benefit from employment opportunities within the sub-county.
“I am asking you, people of Central Seme, do you have children or not? If you have them, why are they not working in our sub-county? They have given us a position for a photographer,” he added.
The remarks appeared to resonate with some mourners, who were seen applauding and nodding as he pressed his case for what he described as fair representation and equal opportunities for all communities.
Obungu also invoked the late former Prime Minister and ODM leader Raila Odinga, whom he accused of having provided Nyikal with political backing in the past.
He warned that the political landscape heading into the 2027 General Election had changed and challenged the legislator to prepare for a contest without relying on the backing he previously enjoyed.
“Honourable Nyikal, your time is over. We knew you when we were young; it is time to pack and go. Raila, who used to hold your hand, is no longer here. You must go and give others an opportunity to lead. It is time for young people,” he added.
His remarks add to the growing debate over political succession, youth representation and equitable access to opportunities ahead of the 2027 elections.
Nyikal had not responded to the allegations at the time of publication.
