Leaders Differ Over Allocation of Sh590 Million KEMFSED Funds

Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti has accused President William Ruto’s administration of interfering with the county’s internal political affairs, claiming the alleged meddling is contributing to rising instability in the Machakos County Assembly. Speaking during a worship service at AIC Baraka Church in Mumbuni, the governor expressed frustration, stating that she expected the same political stability her county has offered the national government to be reciprocated. She insisted that both she and the President were elected to serve citizens, and urged State House to stop, in her words, fueling unnecessary political chaos.
The governor pointed her criticism directly at Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua and area MPs Caleb Mule (Machakos Town), Vincent Musau (Mwala), and Patrick Makau (Mavoko), accusing them of orchestrating division within the County Assembly to undermine her administration. Wavinya further faulted County Assembly Speaker Ann Kiusya, asserting that the Speaker had failed in her responsibility to manage Members of County Assembly effectively. She warned that residents could soon be mobilized to push Kiusya out of office, accusing her of failing to foster the cooperation needed for the smooth running of county affairs.
The accusations come amid heightened political tensions across the region, with local leaders increasingly vocal about what they describe as the national government’s effort to weaken devolved units. Wavinya also criticized Deputy President Kithure Kindiki’s recent remarks encouraging Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka to join the Kenya Kwanza government, calling the overtures insincere. She insisted that national leaders must respect the political autonomy and leadership of Ukambani if they expect meaningful engagement or support in the region.
Observers say the dispute could influence upcoming political alignments in Lower Eastern as leaders position themselves ahead of future elections. Wavinya’s remarks signal a deeper pushback against perceived central interference in counties, an issue likely to shape intergovernmental relations. As President Ruto plans a tour of the region in the coming weeks, the reception he receives may depend on whether the national and county leaderships move to de-escalate tensions or continue the escalating political showdown.