DNK International By Xavier Lugaga, Scoop Agency
Residents of Busia County have urged Governor Paul Otuoma to take immediate action against the county’s Deputy Revenue Director, Peter Barasa, over allegations of mishandling a taxpayer who had visited the revenue office seeking clarification on business permit requirements.
The residents also appealed to the governor to prioritize professionalism and integrity in the county executive, warning that failure to address such conduct could damage the administration’s public image.
“Most of the employees in the executive are political rejectees without governance ethos. They are only out to benefit themselves,” some residents claimed while reacting to the incident.
The reaction followed the circulation of a video clip on social media showing Barasa, who previously contested for a Member of County Assembly (MCA) seat unsuccessfully, allegedly exchanging harsh words with a taxpayer who had visited his office for clarification on business permit regulations.
In the clip,Barasa is heard telling the taxpayer that no one could take action against him, claiming that even senior county officials including the Chief Officer, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM), the County Secretary, or the Governor“cannot do anything” to him.
The incident has sparked mixed reactions among residents and business owners in Busia, with many calling for professionalism, accountability, and respectful treatment of taxpayers in public service offices.
Several traders interviewed said the county government should ensure revenue officials uphold public service values, noting that taxpayers deserve respectful engagement when seeking services or clarification from government offices.
County authorities in Busia County had not issued an official statement regarding the incident by the time of publication.
[DNK-International@March 5,2026]
