Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti is facing public backlash after photos of her luxurious apartments in Athi River emerged online, sparking outrage over glaring inequalities in the region.
Kenyans are calling upon investigative agencies such as the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to probe the Governor’s wealth, with some labeling politics as an “economic hub for the select few.”
The controversy was fueled by the stark contrast between the Governor’s high-end apartments, which boast modern amenities and pristine upkeep, and the sorry state of Athi River Level 4 Hospital, just a short distance away.
Locals have expressed anger and frustration, calling attention to the crumbling infrastructure and poor services at the public health facility.
“Hii ni siasa ama biashara?” questioned Nelson Amenya, one of the disgruntled Kenyan on social media.
Others noted that public service has become a gateway for leaders to amass wealth while neglecting the very people they swore to serve.
The state of Athi River Level 4 Hospital is a sore point for residents. The facility struggles with inadequate resources, broken equipment, and overcrowding, leaving many feeling abandoned by their leaders.
Governor Ndeti has yet to address the uproar directly, but pressure is mounting. Civil society groups and activists are amplifying calls for accountability, urging the government to audit leaders’ wealth and prioritize public service delivery.
As the debate rages on, many hope this incident will shine a light on systemic issues of corruption and misplaced priorities, prompting urgent reforms in how leaders manage public resources.