Busia Governor Paul Otuoma is facing public criticism after a video of him hitting one of his supporters during a seed distribution event.
The incident occurred during an event in which the county government distributed certified maize seeds to farmers as part of an initiative to boost agricultural production.
In a previous message, Governor Paul emphasized the exercise’s success and how the program would help farmers improve the county’s food security.
The video circulating online shows that the man attempted to cut the line where other residents had queued to receive the seeds from the governor.
Paul Otuoma is heard confronting the man in Swahili before landing a kick.
“You get out of there,” a translation of the governor’s words to the young man attempting to bypass the queue.
The public has repeatedly reshared the post and called the governor out for his actions.
Public response to the Paul Otuoma video
Several citizens have publicly expressed their concern and questioned the integrity of the governor.
Prominent figures, such as Senator Okiya Omtatah Okoiti of Busia County, have reposted the video.
According to Edgar Wabwire, the governor’s behavior was unacceptable, as he is a representative of the public.
“The video clearly shows Paul Otuoma, the Governor of Busia County, physically assaulting and kicking a supporter. Such behavior is unacceptable from a public leader and represents a serious abuse of power,” Edgar commented.
Also Read: Paul Otuoma Profile: Educational Background, Career, Family and Net Worth
Others went ahead to criticize the seed distribution program, stating that the action proved the programs were intended as a manipulation strategy.
“Youth and all who can see through the self-preserving manipulation. Let us educate our parents about their mental misuse by politicians. Donated peanuts are not equal to someone/a political parasite living on your sweat and suffering for life,” Ndichu Njuguna stated.
Most of the public, as reflected in their comments, seemed to agree the the governor’s actions will be used against him during the campaigns.
Additionally, some of the people are in agreement that the governor should no longer be in office after this incident.
Distribution of Maize Seeds Initiative
The governor of Busia initiated the distribution of free certified maize seed on March 2, 2026.
The initiative was launched to help the farmers in Burinda and Bulemia, in Marachi West and Elugulu Wards, Butula Sub-County.
During the launch, the governor was accompanied by CECM for Smart Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Blue Economy, Dr. George Mukok, Trade CECM Mr. Olekachuna Omuse; Pamela Awuor (CECM Public Service Management); Beatrice Nakhlo (CECM Education), Topister Wanyama (CECM Trade); Chief Officers Smart Agriculture, Fisheries, and Blue Economy, Mr. Elijah Mwaro and Mercy Imo, and Chief Officer Livestock and Veterinary Services.
His office had not yet officially addressed the issue by the time we published this article.
Also Read: Okiya Omtatah Profile: Education Background, Family, Career and Politics
The governor’s initiatives also benefited residents of Butula, Nambale, Teso North, and Teso South.
The programs include distributing certified maize seeds, grading and repairing local roads, and providing Sh 53.9 million in community grants to assist farmers.
Otuoma was elected as Governor in 2022 on an Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ticket.
He previously served in the Cabinet during the Grand Coalition government of the late President Mwai Kibaki.
He was elected Funyula Member of Parliament for two consecutive terms, from 2007 to 2017.
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