President William Ruto’s close ally and Belgut MP Nelson Koech is at the receiving end of backlash after residents of Chemamul in Belgut, Kericho County, accused him of diverting a county water project for personal use.
According to an X post by blogger Cyprian Nyakundi, the project, meant to serve over 500 households, was initially solar-powered but was later modified, with the solar connection removed and replaced with electricity to pump water to the MP’s residence.
Belgut MP Nelson Koech gestures during a past function. Photo: Nelson Koech Source: Facebook
The water is reportedly being used for the construction of the largest house in Kabianga.
Residents claim that Koech first attempted to source water by digging four boreholes on his property, but after failing to find water, he allegedly redirected the county project.
Women in the area report that by 7 AM, river water is depleted, leaving them struggling to find alternative sources.
Additionally, locals accuse a watchman stationed at the project of harassment, with claims that he recently slapped a woman who attempted to open a valve to increase water flow.
Belgut MP Nelson Koech addressing a gathering. Photo: Nelson Koech Source: Facebook
Despite growing concerns, the area MCA has remained silent, with residents speculating that fear of the MP may be the reason.
The controversy has fueled anger among locals, who feel deprived of a basic necessity due to alleged political interference.
That said, the Belgut lawmaker is one of the many politicians in Kenya who have in the past been linked to scandals.
For instance last year (2024), the MP was at the receiving end, following claims that a company owned and managed by his wife won the multimillion tender to repair sections of Uhuru Highway that got destroyed during the construction of Nairobi Expressway.
