Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti has spoken publicly about the dispute involving comedian Sammy Kioko and the county’s outstanding payments to vendors.
The statement follows a dramatic event in Machakos Town on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, where Kioko and comedian Tom Daktari were detained by officers near the county finance office while protesting what they claimed were unpaid contracts.
Video footage showed an plainclothes officer pinning Kioko to the ground, with witnesses reporting that he suffered physical injuries during the encounter.
Through her social media channels, Governor Ndeti stated, ‘As a county administration, we oppose all forms of violence and encourage all involved to maintain calm and permit lawful processes to function properly.’
Regarding Kioko’s assertions, the Governor was unequivocal, stating that Sammy Kioko is not an accredited vendor of Machakos County Government. ‘Mr. Sammy Kioko is not a registered supplier of the County Government of Machakos. The company that provided the Inspectorate uniforms is Movata Designs,’ she explained, noting that any person representing that company must have proper documentation, such as a valid Power of Attorney or legal counsel representation.
Ndeti confirmed that goods were delivered by Movata Designs but noted that the partial shipment arrived near the end of the 2023/2024 fiscal period, preventing timely inspection and approval.
She stated that Movata Designs’ payment was consequently categorized as an outstanding obligation, adhering to Public Finance Management regulations.
The Governor also disclosed that her administration established the Machakos County Pending Bills Verification Committee, acting on suggestions from the Auditor-General and Controller of Budget, to examine inherited financial obligations totaling Ksh3.8 billion.
She reported that the Committee determined Ksh2.1 billion represented payable pending bills, while Ksh1.6 billion were rejected due to unverified legal charges and insufficient paperwork.
Regarding advancements made, Ndeti stated, ‘Since taking office, my administration has achieved significant and quantifiable results,’ mentioning that Ksh642.3 million of the valid bills had been paid.
She added that the remaining Ksh1.4 billion would be methodically handled through the First Supplementary Budget for the Financial Year 2025/2026 and future fiscal years, consistent with available funds.
‘I therefore ask all our respected vendors to remain patient and communicate with the county government through appropriate channels. Public protests and media attention, though understandable, cannot bypass established procedures or expedite payments beyond legal provisions,’ Wavinya emphasized.
The Governor concluded by highlighting that her administration continues to be accessible, transparent, and dedicated to serving the people of Machakos with respect, equity, and honesty.
‘My administration continues to be open, transparent, and devoted to serving the people of Machakos with dignity, fairness, and integrity. We consider our suppliers essential development partners, and I want to guarantee that no legitimate payment will be overlooked. Government is an ongoing entity, and all verified commitments will be fulfilled when due. Let us continue collaborating with cooperation and mutual respect. Thank you, and may God bless Machakos County,’ Wavinya finished.
Meanwhile, Sammy Kioko remains hospitalized under medical care following claims that he was assaulted.