By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 16 June 2026 - Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire has criticised Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji for aligning himself with opposition politics, arguing that his decision has weakened his ability to effectively lobby for development projects for the constituency.
Speaking during the commissioning of the construction of Njakaire Primary School, a national government-funded project, Mbarire said residents of Manyatta would not be denied development because of their MP's political choices.
The governor accused Mukunji of walking away from the government that controls key development resources, saying elected leaders have a responsibility to work closely with national authorities to secure projects that improve the lives of wananchi.
"Manyatta residents deserve development regardless of the political position taken by their MP. We will continue working with the national government to ensure schools, roads, healthcare facilities and other essential services reach the people," Mbarire said.
Her remarks highlight the growing political contest between leaders allied to President William Ruto's Kenya Kwanza administration and opposition figures seeking to build support ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Mbarire maintained that development should not be held hostage by political rivalry, insisting that collaboration between county and national leaders remains critical to accelerating service delivery.
She said leaders who maintain constructive engagement with the government are often better positioned to advocate for projects and attract resources to their constituencies.
The governor assured residents that ongoing and planned development initiatives would proceed despite political differences, emphasising that the government's commitment to improving livelihoods remains unchanged.
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Former Embu Senator Njeru Ndwiga echoed her sentiments, warning leaders against what he termed "politics of one term" driven by confrontation rather than engagement.
Ndwiga argued that regions whose leaders isolate themselves from government risk losing opportunities to influence national development priorities.
"Development requires partnerships and effective lobbying. Leaders must focus on delivering results rather than engaging in endless political battles," he said.
The exchange underscores a broader debate within Kenyan politics over whether elected leaders should align themselves with the national government to secure development resources or maintain independent political positions while serving their constituents.
As political realignments gather pace ahead of the next election cycle, development has increasingly become a key battleground, with both government and opposition leaders seeking to convince voters they are best placed to deliver economic and social progress.
Mbarire Faults Manyatta MP Over Opposition Ties, Vows Development Will Continue
The governor says Mukunji miscalculated by walking away from the government that controls key development resources.