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POLITICS AND DEVELOPMENT:KAITI CONSTITUENCY 2026 MAKE-OR-BREAK BATTLES-JOSHUA KIMILU VS TERRY MBAIKA BY CORNELIUS KIMBUI...
07/01/2026

POLITICS AND DEVELOPMENT:
KAITI CONSTITUENCY 2026 MAKE-OR-BREAK BATTLES-JOSHUA KIMILU VS TERRY MBAIKA
BY CORNELIUS KIMBUI
Kaiti Constituency is rapidly emerging as one of Makueni County’s most closely watched political battlegrounds as the election season heats up.
At the center of the spotlight are incumbent Joshua Kimilu and rising challenger Terry Mbaika, whose growing influence is reshaping the political dynamics of the region.
For Joshua Kimilu, the race against time is tangible.
As the sitting Member of Parliament, his 2026 agenda is under intense scrutiny.
Residents are watching closely to see whether promises made during his previous term—ranging from youth empowerment initiatives and school bursaries to infrastructure development—have translated into tangible progress.
Every milestone, or lack thereof, could tip public perception, making this a pivotal period for his political survival.
On the other side, Terry Mbaika has steadily carved a reputation as a formidable challenger.
Capitalizing on grassroots engagement, community projects, and social media outreach, Mbaika is appealing to first-time voters and younger constituents who are eager for fresh leadership.
Her activities emphasize accountability, community-driven development, and inclusion, positioning her as a credible alternative to the incumbent.
The 2026 political calendar is unforgiving.
With voter registration drives, party primaries, and coalition negotiations underway, both Kimilu and Mbaika are under pressure to consolidate support.
Every public forum and constituency engagement is a high-stakes maneuver in what has become a true race against time.
For Kaiti residents, the months ahead represent more than political rivalry—they are an opportunity to hold leaders accountable, demand results, and actively shape the future of their constituency.
Roads, schools and youth programs have emerged as central issues, making voter engagement in 2026 critical for all players.
As the countdown to the 2027 general elections continues, the contest between Joshua Kimilu and Terry Mbaika is shaping up to be a defining chapter in Kaiti’s political history—a battle where strategy, delivery, and public perception will determine which leader captures the hearts and minds of the electorate.
Residents of Kaiti Constituency say the management and impact of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) is fast becoming a defining issue in the parliamentary contest.
Across markets, churches, and village meetings, wananchi are increasingly weighing the performance of their leaders through the lens of CDF projects.
From stalled classrooms to bursary allocation disputes, residents argue that how CDF resources are utilized reflects the seriousness, accountability, and priorities of anyone seeking to represent Kaiti in Parliament.
Parents in several wards lament delays and inconsistencies in bursary disbursement, saying many needy students are left out while others benefit repeatedly. “Education is the backbone of this constituency.
Any leader who mishandles CDF bursaries cannot expect our support,” said a resident during a recent public forum.
Youth groups and women leaders echo similar concerns, pointing to half-completed projects that have turned into white elephants.
They say the next MP must demonstrate transparency, inclusivity, and proper oversight of CDF committees to ensure funds translate into tangible development.
Political analysts note that unlike previous elections where party waves and personalities dominated, Kaiti voters are now more issue-driven.
“CDF is no longer a side matter. It has become a yardstick for leadership performance and a campaign battleground,” observed a local analyst.

UPDATE CALLS GROW FOR LEGAL REFORMS AS PRISONS FILL WITH YOUNG MENBy Brian Malila in EmbuPressure is mounting on lawmake...
07/01/2026

UPDATE
CALLS GROW FOR LEGAL REFORMS AS PRISONS FILL WITH YOUNG MEN
By Brian Malila in Embu
Pressure is mounting on lawmakers to urgently review Kenya’s criminal justice laws amid growing concern that current legislation is sweeping young men into prison at alarming rates, cutting short their chances for rehabilitation and productive lives.

The concerns were raised during a sensitization forum held at Embu G.K Prison today 7th January 2026, convened by the Boy Child Justice Alliance in collaboration with the prison administration.

The forum brought together civil society actors, health professionals, and correctional officers to interrogate the impact of punitive laws on young men.

Speaking at the event, Patrick Nguu, Organizing Secretary of the Boy Child Justice Alliance CBO, argued that the legal system has increasingly tilted against the boy child, citing the Sexual Offences Act of 2006 as a key example.

He noted that some convictions are secured solely on the testimony of a single witness, a standard he said exposes young men to wrongful or exaggerated prosecutions.

Nguu called for amendments to strengthen evidentiary thresholds and increase reliance on scientific and forensic proof.

He claimed that a significant number of inmates are behind bars over consensual relationships that later escalate into criminal cases, sometimes fueled by family disputes or financial interests.

He further observed that limited legal awareness among young men often leaves them vulnerable during investigations and trials, underscoring the Alliance’s push for grassroots legal education to help youths understand and defend their rights.

“Parliament must urgently review the laws governing the prosecution of r**e cases. Convicting a suspect on the testimony of a single witness is not fair. We need proper scientific and forensic tools to establish the truth, because many men in our prisons believe justice was not fairly administered,"said Nguu.

Echoing these sentiments, Elias Njeru Nyaga, Chairperson of the Boy Child Justice Alliance in Embu County, said the boy child has remained largely invisible in public policy and budget allocations.

While women-focused empowerment initiatives continue to expand, he noted, programs addressing the unique challenges facing boys and men remain scarce.

Nyaga warned that excessively harsh sentences for minor offences have lifelong consequences, permanently disrupting education, employment, and family structures.

He urged Parliament to urgently revisit laws he described as disproportionately punitive.

“Excluding the boy child from national initiatives is slowly killing an entire generation. When a man is lost, the future of society is placed at serious risk,” said Nyaga.

From a mental health perspective, Patrick Kariithi, Head of the Mental Wellness Department at Cynert Hospital Rehabilitation Center, raised alarm over the growing number of inmates under the age of 25.

Many, he said, are serving sentences for drug use, alcohol abuse, and other minor offences that would be better addressed through rehabilitation rather than incarceration.

Kariithi called on parents, communities, and government agencies to work together to rescue vulnerable young men early, noting that rehabilitation centers have consistently demonstrated success in reforming behavior and restoring social responsibility.

John Kanyugi, Deputy In-Charge of Embu G.K Prison, disclosed that the majority of inmates at the facility are serving lengthy sentences for sexual offences, with some ranging between 50 and 140 years.

Such sentences, Kanyugi said, effectively extinguish any realistic hope of rehabilitation or reintegration.

He stressed that the core mandate of correctional facilities should be reform, not permanent punishment, and advocated for shorter custodial terms and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms for less severe offences.

Our role is to reform those committed to our care. But when someone is sentenced to life, they ask us: after reform, where do I go if my entire life is meant to be spent in prison? We appeal for reduced sentences so that, once reformed, they can return to society and help build the nation,” he said.

Embu G.K Prison as of today holds 1,365 male inmates.

UPDATE MAKUENI SUB COUNTY SET TO BENEFIT FROM SH75 MILLION NG-CDF BURSARY By Veronica Nthakyo Makueni Sub-County is set ...
07/01/2026

UPDATE
MAKUENI SUB COUNTY SET TO BENEFIT FROM SH75 MILLION NG-CDF BURSARY
By Veronica Nthakyo
Makueni Sub-County is set to benefit from a Sh75 million NG-CDF bursary allocation aimed at supporting students from needy backgrounds in secondary schools, colleges, and other tertiary institutions.

NG-CDF Chairperson for Makueni, Mr. Daniel Kavoi, announced that the ongoing bursary distribution exercise will ensure that learners across all 31 locations in the sub-county have an opportunity to benefit.

He spoke to the press on Wednesday during the issuance of bursary application forms at Green Park, Wote Town.

Mr. Kavoi noted that the exercise officially kicked off on Friday, beginning with Nzaui Ward, followed by Kathonzweni, Mavindini, Kikumini–Muvau, and finally Wote–Nziu Ward.

He applauded the timely release of bursary funds, terming it a major boost compared to last year when delays disrupted key school activities such as feeding programmes and science practicals.

He attributed the improvement to the push by Members of Parliament to ensure funds were released on time.

Hundreds of parents and guardians turned up at the various distribution centres, filling them to capacity in what Kavoi described as a clear demonstration of the community’s thirst for education support.

The beneficiaries will include vulnerable students with both parents alive, learners from single-parent families, and orphans.

Mr. Kavoi assured parents and guardians that the selection process will be fair, transparent, and inclusive.

He also urged school principals to exercise patience as the committee works to fast-track the process, acknowledging the financial challenges schools are currently facing.

Mr. Kavoi thanked MP Susan Kiamba for initiating and supporting the bursary programme, saying it will significantly ease the financial burden on learners and their families.

At the same time, he called on parents to play their role by ensuring learners remain in school and make good use of the opportunity provided.

However, parents with students transitioning to Grade 10 were unable to apply for bursaries since the learners are yet to report to school and receive admission numbers.

Addressing the concern, Kavoi reassured them that NG-CDF offices remain open around the clock to assist once the students are admitted.

He emphasized that learners living with disabilities and orphans will be given first priority in the allocation.

Mr. Kavoi further expressed optimism that the quick processing of the exchequer and the release of the Sh44 billion capitation funds will greatly ease the education sector nationwide.

Meanwhile, Kaiti Sub-County in Makueni County, under MP Joshua Kimilu, has also rolled out bursary forms for university students, with an allocation of Sh30 million.

UPDATE MURANG'A COUNTY GOVERNMENT COMMENDS JAMES IRUNGU FOR 80-HOUR CANCER AWARENESS INITIATIVE By Staff Writer The Mura...
07/01/2026

UPDATE
MURANG'A COUNTY GOVERNMENT COMMENDS JAMES IRUNGU FOR 80-HOUR CANCER AWARENESS INITIATIVE
By Staff Writer
The Murang’a County Government has lauded cancer awareness champion James Irungu for his remarkable 80-hour tree-hugging initiative held at Murang’a Town Central Business District, describing his dedication as commendable and impactful.

In a statement, the county recognized Irungu’s effort as a powerful symbol in the fight against cancer, a disease that remains one of the leading health challenges in Murang’a County and across Kenya.

The initiative was aimed at raising public awareness on cancer prevention, early screening, and access to care.

The county government noted that it has continued to strengthen healthcare infrastructure to address cancer-related challenges.

These efforts include the expansion of hospitals and the construction of new dispensaries, among them facilities in Township Ward Mukuyu and Kiangage, which now offer cancer screening services.

Further, Murang’a County has rolled out a free medical insurance programme targeting vulnerable households that require financial support for costly cancer treatment.

The county said plans are underway to expand the scheme to cover more families as resources allow.

To reduce the burden on rural cancer patients, the county has also introduced a telemedicine programme that enables access to monthly cancer services at a lower cost.

However, the county acknowledged that gaps still exist and reaffirmed its commitment to addressing them.

The government stated that it is actively working to attract oncology specialists through the recently passed Amenity Policy by the Murang’a County Assembly, a move expected to improve access to specialized cancer care.

The county assured the public that Irungu’s health remains a top priority, confirming that a team of medical professionals has been monitoring him to ensure his safety as he concludes the awareness initiative.

After his full recovery, the county plans to engage him further on how his ideas and advocacy can support ongoing efforts to combat cancer.

Murang’a County Government reiterated its commitment to fulfilling its manifesto by improving healthcare services and strengthening cancer prevention and treatment programmes for residents.

UPDATE:Principal Secretary, State Department of Internal Security and National Administration, Dr. Raymond Omollo, has s...
07/01/2026

UPDATE:
Principal Secretary, State Department of Internal Security and National Administration, Dr. Raymond Omollo, has said the Garissa Affordable Housing Project (AHP) in Garissa Town Constituency, Garissa County, is part of the largest infrastructure programme being rolled out by the government nationwide and remains a central pillar of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

Beyond expanding access to decent and dignified housing, the project has injected significant economic activity into the region by creating employment opportunities, boosting household incomes, and stimulating local enterprises.

Suppliers, artisans, transport operators, and small traders have all benefited from the increased demand generated by the development.

In Garissa Town—one of the fastest-growing urban centres in the northern frontier—the AHP is transforming the town’s physical outlook and supporting its long-term growth trajectory.

This progress is reinforced by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration’s institutional mandate of providing security and maintaining public order, which is essential for sustainable urban and economic development.

The development comprises a kindergarten and six residential blocks, with two designated for market-rate units and four allocated to affordable and social housing categories.

This configuration delivers a balanced, mixed-use community that integrates residential spaces, commercial activity, and essential social services.

Upon completion, the project is expected to significantly improve living standards, expand economic opportunities, and position Garissa Town as a stronger and more modern regional hub—anchored on effective public administration, community security, and orderly urban growth.

UPDATE:NIGHT GUARD MURDERED IN A GRISLY ATTACK IN MACHAKOS By Daniel Nzia Senior Writer Police in Machakos are investiga...
07/01/2026

UPDATE:
NIGHT GUARD MURDERED IN A GRISLY ATTACK IN MACHAKOS
By Daniel Nzia Senior Writer
Police in Machakos are investigating the murder of a night guard and the serious injuries of his companion at Kwa Ngongo market in Machakos Sub County.

The incident occurred early this morning and was witnessed by the wife of the guard's employer David Ngongo who was taking their children to school.

According to Ngongo his wife found unknown people in a physical confrontation with the two watchmen and rushed back and informed him.

"When I arrived at the scene I found one of them had already been killed while his colleague was badly injured," said their boss.

The local community is calling for the closure of a nearby nightclub, citing increased insecurity in the residential area.

Mumbuni Location Chief Mathew Mulee, has urged citizens to cooperate with security agencies and provide information that could lead to the arrest of the killers.

According the police,the injured guard was rushed to the Machakos Level Five referral hospital for treatment.

The deceased's body was removed to the Machakos Hospital's morgue for preservation.

UPDATE:Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Labour and Social Protection Dr. Alfred Mutua earlier today warmly welcomed the new...
07/01/2026

UPDATE:
Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Labour and Social Protection Dr. Alfred Mutua earlier today warmly welcomed the newly elected Member of Parliament for Mbeere North Constituency, Leo Wa Muthende, to his office.

Muthende paid a courtesy call to discuss how the youth of Mbeere North can benefit from the Kazi Majuu programme.

He highlighted that many families in the constituency have well-educated, skilled, and energetic young people who are ready and willing to work both locally and abroad.

During the meeting, they explored a wide range of opportunities for the youth, including online jobs, the Nyota Programme for youth entrepreneurship, and overseas employment under Kazi Majuu.

Dr. Mutua assured Muthende of his commitment to personally visit Mbeere North, alongside licensed and ethical recruitment agencies, to facilitate the recruitment of young men and women for overseas jobs as soon as the MP is ready—even as early as next week.

The discussions also included a visit to the offices of Cabinet colleagues Wycliffe Oparanya and Salim Mvurya, where they explored ways for Mbeere North to benefit from the Nyota Programme’s business support component and recognition of prior learning, among other initiatives.

Dr. Mutua expressed that he was deeply touched by Muthende’s genuine care for his people and encouraged by his eagerness to hit the ground running—a true mark of a focused and committed leader.

EDITORIAL COMMENT:E-PROCUREMENT WILL FIGHT CORRUPTION IN KENYACorruption has long been a thorn in Kenya’s development ag...
07/01/2026

EDITORIAL COMMENT:
E-PROCUREMENT WILL FIGHT CORRUPTION IN KENYA
Corruption has long been a thorn in Kenya’s development agenda, siphoning public resources and slowing down service delivery.
One of the most effective tools to curb this menace is the adoption of e-procurement, a digital system for government purchasing and tendering.
By moving procurement processes online, transparency is automatically enhanced.
Every tender, bid submission, and award decision is recorded and can be tracked by the public, civil society, and oversight bodies.
This reduces the chances of favoritism, bribery, and manipulation that often accompany manual procurement processes.
E-procurement also increases efficiency.
Automated systems enforce compliance with procurement laws and timelines, reducing human discretion that can be exploited for corrupt gains.
It allows for wider participation, giving more businesses, including small and medium enterprises, a fair chance to compete for government contracts.
Moreover, digital records create accountability.
Any irregularities are easier to detect, and audit trails can pinpoint where and how corruption attempts occurred.
Over time, this builds public trust in government processes and reassures taxpayers that their money is being used responsibly.
While technology alone cannot eradicate corruption, it is a powerful ally.
Coupled with strong enforcement of anti-corruption laws, civic engagement, and ethical leadership, e-procurement can significantly reduce opportunities for graft, making Kenya’s governance more transparent and accountable.
The message is clear: embracing digital systems is not just about efficiency—it’s about integrity and building a Kenya where public resources serve the people, not corrupt interests.
PARENTS
Parents across Kenya have lauded the adoption of e-procurement in schools and colleges, saying it is the best way to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability in the management of educational resources.
Speaking on the matter, several parents noted that e-procurement reduces opportunities for corruption and mismanagement of funds, which have in the past hindered the smooth running of institutions.
By digitizing the purchase of supplies, textbooks, and school services, all transactions become traceable and open to scrutiny.
“E-procurement will make sure that every shilling meant for our children’s education is accounted for. It will prevent inflated bills and favoritism when awarding contracts,” a parent told The County Champion.
Parents argue that this system will not only save resources but also improve the learning environment by ensuring timely delivery of essential materials.
With e-procurement, parents believe that schools and colleges can focus more on what matters most: quality education for learners, while building trust between school management and the community.
This push by parents reflects a growing demand for modern, transparent systems in education management that safeguard public funds and enhance accountability.

EDITORIAL COMMENT:STUDENTS MUST SETTLE DOWN, USE TIME WISELY, AND SHUN UNRESTBY CORNELIUS KIMBUIAs learners resume their...
07/01/2026

EDITORIAL COMMENT:
STUDENTS MUST SETTLE DOWN, USE TIME WISELY, AND SHUN UNREST
BY CORNELIUS KIMBUI
As learners resume their studies after the holidays, this is a crucial moment for students to settle down, refocus, and make meaningful use of their time.
Education remains the most powerful tool for personal growth and national development, and every day spent in school is an investment in the future.
Unrests, strikes, and disruptions only derail academic progress and often leave lasting negative consequences.
Lost learning time is rarely fully recovered, and in many cases, unrest leads to damaged facilities, strained relationships with administrators, and delayed examinations.
Ultimately, it is students themselves who pay the highest price.
This is not to dismiss the genuine challenges students face.
Concerns around facilities, welfare, or administration are real and should be addressed.
However, dialogue, engagement, and structured representation through student leaders remain the most effective and responsible ways of resolving issues.
Peaceful communication yields lasting solutions, while chaos only deepens problems.
Students are encouraged to set clear goals, manage their time wisely, and remain disciplined.
This period demands focus, resilience, and commitment.
Making good use of libraries, classrooms, and mentorship opportunities will help learners stay on course and achieve their aspirations.
Parents, teachers, and school administrators also have a role to play by listening, guiding, and supporting students through open channels of communication.
A calm and supportive learning environment benefits everyone.
As the academic term unfolds, students must remember that their primary responsibility is to learn.
By avoiding unrest and choosing constructive engagement, they safeguard their future and contribute to a stable, productive education system that serves both their dreams and the nation’s progress.
FEES
Parents Should Pay School Fees to Ensure Smooth Running of Schools.
The smooth operation of schools largely depends on the timely payment of school fees by parents and guardians.
Fees are not just a financial obligation; they are a critical lifeline that enables schools to function effectively and provide a stable learning environment for students.
When fees are paid on time, school administrations are able to plan properly, pay non-teaching and support staff, provide meals, maintain facilities, and purchase essential learning materials. Delays or failure to pay fees often disrupt these processes, leading to strained resources, demotivated staff, and compromised service delivery—all of which directly affect learners.
It is understandable that many parents face economic challenges.
However, education remains a shared responsibility between families, schools, and the government.
Where difficulties arise, open communication with school management is far more constructive than withholding fees altogether.
Payment plans and mutual understanding can help ensure that learning continues uninterrupted.
Failure to pay fees can also indirectly contribute to tension within schools, sometimes leading to unrest or reduced learning time.
Such disruptions hurt students the most, as they lose valuable instructional hours and a conducive learning environment.
Parents are therefore encouraged to prioritize education expenses and plan ahead to meet school requirements.
Supporting schools financially is a practical way of supporting children’s futures.
A partnership built on responsibility, transparency, and cooperation between parents and school administrations will guarantee the smooth running of schools, quality education, and a brighter future for learners and the nation at large.

UPDATE:MAKUENI GETS READY AHEAD OF MANGO PEAK SEASON Are you a mango farmer in Makueni County seeking a reliable and fai...
06/01/2026

UPDATE:
MAKUENI GETS READY AHEAD OF MANGO PEAK SEASON
Are you a mango farmer in Makueni County seeking a reliable and fair market for your produce? The Makueni County Fruit Development and Marketing Authority is now ready to receive mangoes from farmers across the county as from Thursday this week.

Under the new arrangement, contracted cooperatives will purchase mangoes directly from farmers at the farm gate at KSh 19 per kilogram.

In the current financial year, the county government plans to purchase mangoes worth KSh 13.9 million, up from KSh 11 million spent in the previous financial year.

Speaking during a meeting chaired by deputy governor Lucy Mulili at the Kalamba fruit processing plant on Tuesday, CECM for Agriculture Elizabeth Muli said seven contracted cooperatives have been allocated specific zones from which to source mangoes.

Each cooperative is expected to deliver at least 50 metric tonnes of mangoes weekly to the factory which has a daily processing capacity of 70 metric tonnes.

The Authority's Chief Executive Officer Joseph Kioko reported that at least 60 casual workers have been engaged at the plant during the processing period.

To protect farmers from exploitation by middlemen, who previously purchased produce at low prices, the Authority has introduced official pricing schedules.

These schedules will be signed by farmers upon sale of their produce to ensure transparency and accountability.

The initiative is part of Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr.’s administration’s efforts to grow household incomes and promote trade & industrialization for agro processing.
-GOVERNOR PRESS SERVICE

UPDATE:KTN  TV JOURNALIST JAPHETH KIITI MAKAU IS DEADBy Daniel Nzia Senior Writer A long serving KTN television journali...
06/01/2026

UPDATE:
KTN TV JOURNALIST JAPHETH KIITI MAKAU IS DEAD
By Daniel Nzia Senior Writer
A long serving KTN television journalist, Japheth Kiiti Makau, is dead.
Makau passed on at the Machakos Level Five referral hospital shortly before 11.00 am this morning, where he was undergoing treatment for TB and other ailments.

A doctor who was handling Makau at the facility said they tried all they could to save his life, but he succumbed.

The KTN staffer had been discharged from the same facility last Friday but was brought back on Saturday after developing a breathing problem.

A battery of journalists in Machakos town led by the Machakos journalists Chairman Daniel Nzia, jammed the facility on receiving the news of his sudden death.

"Makau has gallantly fought the battle, but he has lost it. May his soul rest in eternal peace," said Nzia, who worked with him at The Standard group for a couple of years.

On behalf of journalists in Machakos County, Nzia sent heartfelt condolences to the wife,Jacqueline, and the entire Makau family during this trying moment of grief.

WHY MACHAKOS TOWN PARLIAMENTARY SEAT IS A HIGH STAKES POLITICAL CONTESTBY CORNELIUS KIMBUIThe Machakos Town parliamentar...
06/01/2026

WHY MACHAKOS TOWN PARLIAMENTARY SEAT IS A HIGH STAKES POLITICAL CONTEST
BY CORNELIUS KIMBUI
The Machakos Town parliamentary seat has emerged as one of the most competitive battlegrounds in upcoming 2027 General elections, largely due to the profiles and political histories of Caleb Mutiso Mule and Dr. Victor Munyaka — two influential leaders with strong support bases and contrasting appeal.
Caleb Mutiso Mule currently holds the Machakos Town seat, having been elected in 2022.
Mule’s rise from County Assembly service to national politics reflects his growing grassroots appeal and connection with younger and first-time voters.
His background in local governance gives him practical insights into constituency needs, especially infrastructure, budget priorities, and transport issues.
In contrast, Dr. Victor Munyaka is a seasoned politician with deep roots in the constituency.
He served multiple terms as MP, first elected in 2007 and maintaining a long parliamentary presence before losing in 2022.
His extensive experience and long tenure contribute to a strong legacy and familiarity among older and traditional voters who remember his leadership and community engagement.
This clash — fresh leadership versus established legacy naturally intensifies competition, making the seat highly contested.
In the 2022 election, Mule secured a decisive victory over Munyaka, garnering significantly more votes nearly 47,600 to Munyaka’s 20,000 which demonstrated a clear shift in voter sentiment at that time.
However, Munyaka’s relevance has persisted outside formal political office.
Even after losing in 2022, he remained engaged in public discourse and was recently notable enough to be nominated for a national appointment — a position he declined, citing political considerations — highlighting his continued influence and refusal to retreat from politics.
The dynamics also reflect broader party landscapes in Ukambani politics, where party allegiance and coalitions often shift, impacting voter loyalty and strategic alliances.
Machakos Town has a sizable voter population — over 117,000 registered voters — meaning success requires deep, sustained engagement across different demographic groups.
Recent polling trends showed both Munyaka and Mule with significant backing among constituents, with Munyaka slightly ahead in some snapshots.
This suggests the race remains open and competitive, with voter sentiment potentially influenced by local development issues, national politics, and campaign effectiveness.
Mule’s strategy may focus on continuity, highlighting achievements and responsiveness to current needs.
Munyaka can leverage his experience, network, and reputation for long-term service.
Key voter concerns likely include local development — such as job creation, infrastructure, youth empowerment — and how future MPs will navigate both local expectations and national legislative responsibilities.
The Machakos Town parliamentary contest between Caleb Mutiso Mule and Dr. Victor Munyaka is more than a rematch; it’s a symbolic contest of experience versus renewal, legacy versus momentum.
Given their respective bases, electoral history, and strategic positioning, the seat is set to be one of the most fiercely fought in the region — making it a political contest to watch closely as 2026 unfolds.

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The County Champion is an English language newspaper published Monthly by County Champion Publishers. It covers Machakos,Kitui,Makueni and Embu Counties. The County Champion is privately owned and is Ukambani’s most influential newspaper and has an attractive, easy-to-read layout, making County Champion newspaper that can compete with the other regions best. Our Newspaper has become quite popular with our readers. Our serious editorial policy coupled with an aggressive marketing strategy has yielded to a largely growing readership. Our publication with a cover price of only Ksh. 50 is affordable to our publics. We have improved on our product quality by steadily increasing amount of colour, thanks to greater readership.

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