There was a drama at the main gate to Migori Governor’s office when a man claiming to be a contractor went on a hunger strike for more than 10 hours demanding to be paid Ksh8 million owed by the county government for construction of eight public toilets across the county.

Marikus Okinyi claimed that he was competently awarded tender to construct six public toilets in different markets two years ago which he completed successfully using money borrowed from friends and relatives. He said that the county administration has only paid him Ksh 400,000.

“I have tried several attempts to claim my money but empty promises have dominated my way. Seemingly my money is lost,” frustrated Okinyi, who instantly launched his hunger strike until the Ksh 8 million is settled, told the press.

He said the toilets he constructed remain closed until county pays his arrears. “I can’t open completed toilets for public use. Doing so, will be erroneously communicating to my sources of funds that I have been paid,” he said.

He said his attempts to meet the governor to address his issues reached a dead end after his official handlers blocked his move.

READ: How to become wealthy without education

However, Migori County Government Chief Financial Officer Samuel Omuga challenged the complainant to produce the tender and other compliance documents to support his claims.

He admitted that the county awarded him the tender to construct two toilets in which part of the money was settled last financial year.

“His claims are outrageous. Ask him to produce a single document to support his claims. He is one man who has vehemently refused to follow processes of awarding tender,” Omuga said.

While responding to the same claims, Migori Governor Zachary Obado noted that all contractors should fulfill all the required procedures before beginning work.