The creation of the new Nyando district has sparked a controversy in Kadibo division with leaders differing sharply on whether or not it should remain in Kisumu District.

A meeting convened by the Kadibo DO, Mr Dominic Odera, to debate the administrative fate of the division turned chaotic with a bitter exchange of words.

Most speakers at the meeting attended by more than 500 people recommended that Kadibo remain part of Kisumu District owing to its proximity to Kisumu town.

A Kenya National Union of Teachers official, a Mr Nyanjong' was heckled and forced off the podium after he said that the division would only benefit if it became part of Nyando district.

The charged public termed him a traitor and the the DO had to save Mr Nyanjong' from being heckled further.

The division, with its headquarters at Rabuor, about 10 km from Kisumu, falls within Nyando constituency and has seven locations. Residents at the meeting claimed that it would be cheaper to be served from Kisumu than Awasi, the Nyando district headquarters, which is 30 km away.

"The reason for creating more districts is to bring services closer to the people and this will be futile if we are to be served from Awasi. Bus fare to Kisumu from Kadibo is Sh15 while it costs Sh60 to Awasi," said a Kanu official, Mr John Obura Owuoth.

Speakers at the meeting, including the DO criticised the local MP, Mr Paul Otita, for boycotting the meeting.

"It is unfortunate for an elected leader to boycott such an important meeting called to decide the fate of his people. I will never take such leaders seriously again," the DO said.

He said he had convened the meeting to enable the residents of Kadibo make a decision on which district they want to be.

A number of speakers condemned what they termed a smear campaign against the Nyanza PC, Mr Peter Raburu, in regard to the controversy over the division. Mr. Raburu hails from the division.

A Knut official, Mr P. Obaje said a group of councillors met with the area MP in Rabuor market on Monday and allegedly insulted PC.

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