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.