Governor Bii nominates UASU official to replace trade executive Martha Cheruto who has resigned

Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii has suffered a setback after his Trade executive Martha Cheruto resigned.

Cheruto, one of Bii’s prominent cabinet members, has served in his administration for the past three years, overseeing the trade, industrialisation, tourism and development docket.

Her exit comes after a period of low public profile in recent months.

Following her resignation, Bii nominated Phillip Chebunet to take over the position, subject to approval by the county assembly.

Chebunet is the secretary of the Universities Academic Staff Union at the Chepkoilel University College chapter.

In his nomination notice, the governor described Chebunet as a distinguished professional with more than two decades of experience in governance and strategic communication.

He holds a PhD in Communication Studies from Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, a Master of Philosophy in Communication Studies, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Relations from Moi University.

He also has certifications in mediation and public speaking.

“Having served in academia and administration, Chebunet brings skills in governance, policy formulation and strategic leadership, as well as extensive experience in enterprise development, entrepreneurship and trade,” Bii said.

The governor has already forwarded the nomination to the county assembly for vetting.

The changes come as Bii moves to accelerate the implementation of his flagship projects ahead of next year’s polls, where he is expected to seek re-election.

The governor has recently intensified his political activities, warning rivals against attempts to unseat him in the next General Election.

Bii said his performance record would be enough to secure him a second term.

“They should use their money wisely instead of engaging in an impossible mission to campaign against me. As of now, this county is locked until I complete my two terms in office,” he said.

He also cautioned members of his administration whom he accused of being part of a “one-term” brigade working against him from within.

“Let those talking of one term for me know that I will not work with people bent on sabotaging my administration. I am watching them and no one should complain when I decide to act,” he warned.

Bii said his administration has delivered several key development projects in the county over the past three years.

Engineer Martha Cheruto who resigned who resigned from Uasin Gishu county