1)Tell us about yourself and why you have chosen to run for the Uasin Gishu County Governors Seat?
I am Ambassador Professor Julius Bitok. I am a resident of Eldoret South of Uasin Gishu county.
I went to Kaptuktuk Primary School, Arnesens and Chebisaas Secondary School.
I latter joined Kenya Science Teachers College for a Diploma Course, Moi university for undergraduate and University of Nairobi for MBA.
God blessed me and I joined the Oklahoma State University (USA) for a PhD in Finance.
I was a teacher then lecturer for 15 years and latter I was appointed a Diplomat.
I started politics as a student leader; was elected in Kenya Science, Moi University and University of Nairobi.
I have always had a passion to serve my people in an elective position.
I am passionate about serving the people and assisting the less fortunate.
2) When and what inspired you to join politics?
I strongly believe we can change our County positively. I have traveled widely and seen countries where governments serve their people effectively. I have seen our people suffer because of poor leadership and hope to be the change that they desire.
3) Why should the people of Uasin Gishu vote for you?
I have immense experience in management, international connections for investment and I am a reliable leader. I will transform Uasin Gishu and ensure everyone has an income.
Having l traveled widely, I will utilize our diversity in culture and skills to make Uasin Gishu great
4) What are your objectives?
Youth empowerment, Agribusiness and value addition, Services to the people, Free Health care and getting markets where we will export our products.
5) Are you the right candidate to address the locals’ concerns?
Yes. I was born in a humble background. Went to a local school. Had no shoes and struggled to get education. I used to walk for 10km to sell eggs to get transport to visit the Kenya National Library Services in Eldoret every Saturday. I was born a Hustler and understands the locals’ problems so well.
6) what is your leadership style?
I am a consultative leader. I like listening more to the people than speaking. I am approachable. I like embracing new ideas and try to understand things before acting. I am a team player and will work well with MCA’s.
7)Which political leader do you admire and look up to?
I like the philosophy of bottom-up economics. I admire how Nelson Mandela selflessly delivered South Africa and left it a strong Nation. He also said Education is an equalizer that makes us equal. I also admire the way former President Mwai Kibaki built the Kenyan economy. He did well
8)What are you planning to do better than your predecessor?
Governor Jackson Mandago has done his best but there are many gaps to be filled. I will set up structures that government can run without you having to know someone to get a service. I will build Eldoret town into a modern City that everyone will be proud of.
9) Now that the Country is going through inflation what is your economic recovery plan for Uasin Gishu County?
I will introduce stimulus packages for small businesses. Create innovation Centers for startups. Engage strategic investors using my networks to invest more in Uasin Gishu. We must incubate our ideas for long term benefits.
- What will you want to achieve in the first 100 days in office?
I will ensure all unnecessary licenses for small businesses are scrapped, ensure quick delivery of services, form an inclusive cabinet that accommodates all residents of Uasin Gishu County, subsidize agriculture inputs and sign agreements that will see more agriculture products are exported from Uasin Gishu County.