- Mavoko MP Patrick Makau accused Governor Wavinya Ndeti of using the judiciary and police to silence dissent and intimidate critics
- Makau filed a complaint with the ODPP, alleging misuse of prosecutorial powers, including unfounded charges
- The rivalry between Makau and Wavinya stems from their Wiper party dynamics, with Makau announcing his 2027 gubernatorial bid and vowing to challenge her leadership
- Criticism of Wavinya’s administration extends to poor healthcare services, excessive foreign travel expenses, and corruption, with calls for accountability
CHECK OUT: Learn at Your Own Pace! Our Flexible Online Course allows you to fit copywriting skills development around your busy schedule. Enroll Now!
Didacus Malowa, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.
Machakos – Tensions have escalated as Mavoko MP Patrick Makau publicly criticised Governor Wavinya Ndeti, accusing her of abusing her authority to silence dissent and intimidate her critics.
During a bursary issuance event held in Kinanie, Makau characterised Wavinya’s leadership as tyrannical, claiming she has resorted to using the judiciary and police to carry out political arrests against those who oppose her administration.
“Wavinya has transformed into a ruler who silences any voice of dissent,” he charged, expressing outrage over the perceived use of state machinery for personal vendettas.
PAY ATTENTION:TUKO is in WhatsApp Channels now! Subscribe and read news in favourite messenger.
Makau highlighted that young people, particularly those active on social media, have become prime targets of Wavinya’s crackdown.
He alleged that business owners who openly challenge the governor have faced retaliatory actions, including punitive fines and the closure of their businesses.
“It’s imperative that the judiciary and our police do not become instruments in Wavinya’s quest for power. They must remain impartial,” Makau declared.
How is Wavinya weaponising the law
The lawmaker’s accusations come hot on the heels of a formal complaint he filed with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), alleging the misuse of prosecutorial powers by the county government.
Makau stated that those opposing Wavinya face a barrage of unfounded charges designed to intimidate them, including accusations of “obstructing inspectorate officers” and “using offensive language.”
In response to mounting concerns, the ODPP has requested the Machakos County prosecution officer to promptly provide details of several contentious cases for review.
Furthermore, addressing the quarrying industry in his constituency, Makau warned Wavinya not to seize essential machinery from local miners.
“Your greed must cease, Wavinya. The livelihoods of our business people must be preserved,” he urged, emphasizing the need for accountability in governance.
Adding to the chorus of criticism, Kinanie MCA Francis Kavyu stood alongside Makau, threatening to mobilize local residents for peaceful protests should Wavinya fail to return the confiscated quarrying equipment within seven days.
“We will not sit idly by as our rights are trampled upon,” Kavyu vowed.
Why are Wavinya, Makau rivals
The relationship between Makau and Wavinya has become increasingly contentious, particularly with Makau announcing his intentions to run for governor in the 2027 elections.
Both leaders are prominent figures in the Wiper party, and their rivalry dates back to the previous election cycle, where negotiations led to Makau withdrawing from the race to pave the way for Wavinya.
“Wavinya, your reign is coming to an end. The people of Machakos will reclaim their rights and demand real development come 2027,” Makau asserted, signalling his readiness for the political showdown ahead.
Growing dissent against Wavinya
Additionally, Nzioka Waita, the former state house chief of staff and a candidate in the 2022 Machakos gubernatorial race, publicly criticized the poor healthcare services.
He also pointed to audit reports that reveal excessive foreign travel expenses, which Wavinya Ndetse’s finance minister, Onesmus Kuyu, has dismissed as false.
This criticism comes on the heels of a recent move by the Machakos County Assembly, which expressed dissatisfaction with the minister’s performance in revenue management, further highlighting the ongoing issues within the county’s administration.
“Machakos people have been placed on a list of shame. We are leading in corruption and the misappropriation of public funds,” Nzioka stated, calling attention to the pressing need for accountability.
He urged Wavinya’s administration to enhance its service delivery efforts, arguing that the residents of Machakos are now regretting their choice of leadership.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
