Charity begins at home

Governor Wambora distributes 20,000 face masks to needy groups

Governor Wambora distributes face masks to Bodaboda riders for free, at his offices on 23 April. PHOTO:Martin Fundi

Embu county Governor Martin wambora on Thursday distributed  20, 000 free facemasks to vulnerable groups across the county.

Speaking while launching the distribution, Governor Wambora said that hawkers, Matatu operators, Boda boda operators and Mama Mbogas will receive 2,500 pieces for each group.

Those living in slums will receive a batch of 2,500 pieces, Rescue Centers will get 1,500 pieces, children homes will have 1,100 while people living with disabilities will get 1,000 pieces.

Those working in the Juakali sector will get 2,500 pieces, revenue collection staff will get 600, street children 500, garbage collection staff 400 and enforcement officers will benefit with 200 pieces of face masks.

John De’Matthew: It’s Time for Peace and Work, not Politics

Celebrity John De'Matthew (left) during the courtesy call to Dr. Jamleck Muturi (right) on 18 June, 2019

Fare Thee Well, John De’Matthew: It’s Time for Peace and Work, not Politics

A

s almost everyone may have noticed, some leaders in Kenya are currently too much into 2022 succession politics, in place of doing what they were elected to do – delivery of services to their people.

In a bid to counter this dangerous trend, renowned musician John De’Matthew is working hand in hand with Kameme TV in a campaign to preach peace and work instead of continual politicking. The 'Peris Nduku' hit maker outlined this plan when he paid a courtesy call to the Minister for Trade, Tourism, Investment and Industrialization in Embu County Dr. Jamleck Muturi at his office on 18 June 2019.

Present in the meeting was the Chief Officer, Youth Empowerment and Sports, Mr. Sam Wachira, Director of Trade Mr Anthony Zawaya and Director, Tourism Ms Virginia Warue. Minority Leader in Embu County Assembly Hon. Lenny Mwaniki (Masters) also graced the occasion. In the celebrity’s entourage was his manager Mr. John Ndung’u and Ms Esther Nyaga of Kameme TV

From left: Artiste Manager John Ndung'u, Minority Leader Embu County assembly Hon. Lenny Mwaniki, Director Tourism, Ms. Virginia Warue, Chief Officer Youth Empowerment and Sports Mr. Sam Wachira, Musician John De'Matthew, CECM Trade Dr. Jamleck Muturi, Ms. Esther Nyaga of Kameme TV, Director Trade Mr. Anthony Zawaya and Governor's Press and Communication officer Mr. Jeremiah Mutuanga. PHOTO: Daniel Karani

.

While outlining the noble plan, De’Mathew said that he, together with ten other renowned musicians are set to hold a mega live concert at Embu Stadium on 28 July 2019. This will be part of a peace program dubbed 'De'Matthew Mashinani', traversing the whole country. The artistes are expected to not only perform their best hits but also sensitize the people on the need to focus on what their leaders are doing in delivering their mandate and promoting peace. The business community will also be invited to showcase their trade through the Kenya National Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

In the week before the show to be aired live on Kameme TV, the media fraternity plans to highlight tourism and investment opportunities in the county. At the same time, talented youth can expect to receive support from the celebrity, who has offered to record at least one song at the state-of-the-art studio established at the Embu Talent Academy. He said that when he toured the facility accompanied by the government officials. This effort is expected to steer the people’s attention from politics into work and peace.

John De'Matthew (right) at the Embu Talent Academy with government officials

MATTRESSES, IRON SHEETS, FOODSTUFF AND MEDICAL CARE AVAILED TO LANDSLIDE VICTIMS

Some of the goodies donated by Governor Wambora to the landslide victims

Even as the rains continue wreaking havoc all over the country, the victims of a recent landslide in Embu County found consolation in the man they elected as governor. Residents of Mutuangima and Mutuaitaru villages of Kyeni North ward in Runyenjes Constituency have a reason not to weep following a visit by Embu County governor, H.E. Martin Wambora. In an unannounced visit to the affected families, the God-fearing leader followed the teachings of Christ that when we do charitable works we should not let the left hand know what the right hand is doing. However, as it is hard to light a lamp and fail to see the light, governor Wambora’s good deeds to the victims have received criticism from enemies of development, as usual.

Governor Wambora (centre, in blue suit) is received by jubilant
though suffering villagers

The eighteen (18) families were temporarily housed at Iriari primary school with the governor making a personal donation of sufficient foodstuff, blankets and twenty iron sheets per family, to enable them reconstruct their houses. He also arranged to have a medical camp established at the site to take care of the children and the elderly. Knowing well that it is better to teach a hungry person how to fish than to give them fish, governor Wambora resolved to get into talks with the management of Nyayo Tea Zone with the aim of having it allocate a piece of land to resettle the affected families. The organization owns expansive tracts of land around Mt. Kenya forest.

WAMBORA’S LEGACY Could Live Forever, Courtesy of ‘Ciiko Airlifts’

Governor Wambora is likened to Tom Mboya visionwise

So soon after his appointment as Chairman to the Security and Foreign Affairs Committee in the Council of Governors, Embu governor H.E. Martin Wambora is already considering how the opportunity could optimally benefit the people of Embu. Being a visionary leader, he realizes that investment in human resources is the best way to ensure that in future, there shall be no shortage of highly educated professionals to provide labor and entrepreneurship in Embu, and Kenya as a whole. How so?

Kirinyaga Governor, Anne Waiguru drew
much attention at the Council​ of Governors
Conference

In economics, we have four major factors of production or economic resources, so to say: Land, Capital, Labor and Entrepreneurship. For land and capital to be gainfully employed, competent labor and entrepreneurship is requisite. The economy therefore needs a highly learned, exposed and experienced workforce to provide strategic, tactical and operational management skills now and in future; especially in future.

To that end, Governor Wambora is about to implement a noble plan, similar to Tom Mboya’s “Operation Airlift Africa”, some 54 years ago. According to an article in New African Magazine dated 26^th January, 2014, between 1959 and 1963, Kenya’s political icon, the late Tom Mboya organized the airlifting of 770 young men and women from Kenya and nine other East, Central, and Southern countries to go and study in the USA and come back to shape the future of their countries. 

Young Barack Obama, former US president, with his late
father; a beneficiary of the program

Airlifted to America aboard specially chartered BOAC (British Overseas Airways Corporation) airplanes, the students were trained in the US to become everything from engineers and economists to agronomists and civil servants. They were really preparing, though, to become the future leaders of Kenya and fill positions in government and industry that the British would soon vacate.

Some beneficiaries of Tom Mboya's Operation Airlift Africa

Wambora’s initiative, possibly to be dubbed ‘Ciiko Airlifts’, is likely to be more effective as it will target a smaller population – Embu County. Beneficiaries will be the currently unemployed first degree holders in Embu, willing to pursue their Masters Degrees abroad then come back and serve their county, and country. That way, the soft-spoken but highly intelligent leader will be sure that when he retires in 2022, he will leave the county in competent hands - hands of visionary professionals who will steer the county towards the achievement of its vision, and keep the Wambora Legacy alive!

The Executive and Committee Chairpersons

LEADERS INVITE PROSPERITY As They CONVERGE for Thanksgiving Ceremony

Hon. Martin Mwangi (2nd left)
 with Governor Wambora (2nd right)
and other leaders on a past event.

For the first time since he was sworn in to office, Embu Governor, H.E. Hon. Martin Wambora is expected to make a public appearance as he graces a Thanksgiving ceremony for nominated MCA Hon. Martin Mwangi at Winners' Chapel on 1st October, 2017. Almost all other leaders who are responsible for taking Embu County to the next level in the next five years are also scheduled to be in attendance, as they all have much to give thanks for. 

An invitation card to the Thanksgiving Ceremony, where all are welcome

Young Hon. Mwangi is well known in Embu town and its environs, especially among the under-privileged masses residing in the informal settlements (Ghettos) where he has been quite philanthropic in feeding and clothing poor families through Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) Rescue Center, an organization he helped establish.

Hon. Mwangi serves the children

The noble gesture is likely to have a positive 'ripple' effect characterized by growth in terms of trade, investment and industrialization as it will provide a platform where after the major event, stakeholders will meet informally and brainstorm on the best way forward. Those who are given to faith in the power of prayer know that the event shall not be in vain, as it is written; 

'...he hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: His righteousness remaineth forever...' and also 'Being enriched in everything to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God'. (2 Corinthians 9:9, 11)

With this kind of leadership, prosperity can be expected in the land of opportunities, with investment and Industrialization going a notch higher, as the Lord pours favor upon the people.

This indeed is certainly a form of investment in divine intervention which, through faith will translate to growth in Raslimali (Resources) in Embu County.

TRADE, INDUSTRY And POLITICS Go Hand in Hand

Dear readers,

NEW BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY IN KENYA POLITICS

Just as we were getting ready to get into business; trade, investment, industrialization, and tourism, we are presented with another market, where the NASA-Jubilee 'battle' is the main product. 

Here is a platform where you can share your opinions, thoughts, ideas and sentiments on the political warfare, freely, and reach thousands of readers:

We are therefore introducing  'The Prophet', a blog that will keep you updated on the NASA-Jubilee tussle, as we gear up to the imminent presidential re-election.

Above is a screenshot of a post in the blog, and below is a link to all other posts in the blogspot, for your perusal:

http://cordisdead.blogspot.co.ke/?m=1
For mobile and

http://cordisdead.blogspot.co.ke/?m=0
For Web/ PC

Here's some more juice...

  By Nyaga Mutuanga. B.Ba (Hons)

The writer is a graduate freelancer and the Managing Director, FINMAN PROFESSIONAL SERVICES.

Mobile: 0729 801 581

IT'S A NEW DAWN! Welcome All, To New Investment Opportunities

'The man of action' TAKES THE HELM ONCE AGAIN...

Re-elected Embu Governor H.E. Martin Wambora (right) takes the Oath of Office, when he was sworn in for a second term in Office, at Embu Stadium on 18/8/2017. PHOTO /Courtesy

...and as the man's nick-name - Ciiko - depicts, the recently re-elected Governor of Embu County, Wambora, has let bygones be bygones and embraced the opportunity to lead 'The Land of Opportunities' for another five years of tangible and visible deeds.

During his Swearing-in ceremony held at Embu Stadium on Friday 18/8/2017, Governor Wambora - who was re-elected on 8/8/2017 - voiced his intention to work with all harmoniously, at all levels.

Governor Wambora (left) and Deputy Governor, David Kariuki, with their respective spouses to their left,lead other leaders in giving thanks to God on the big day. PHOTO/Courtesy

"I promise I will not let you down", He said to the jubilant crowd, amid cheers of praise and admiration.

The occasion marked the end of divisive politics and the beginning of wealth creation by the people through cooperative leadership.

To that effect, we have rebranded this online newsletter from SIASA ZA EMBU to RASLIMALI EMBU (Raslimali is Swahili for wealth/investment) 

This move was taken in readiness to market Embu County, and the larger Mt. Kenya region to the rest of the world, as an investment hub and tourists' destination.

The magnificent snow-capped triple peaks of Mt. Kenya are clearly visible from Embu town  on any sunny morning and there is an adventurous route way to the top of the moutain

OF MOSES, JESUS, KENYATTA AND WAMBORA

President Uhuru Kenyatta endorsed Embu governor Martin Wambora; both face opposition in spite of having performed well

Both President Uhuru Kenyatta and Embu governor Martin Wambora face stubbornness in spite of their  good performance. Just like in the old biblical days, Moses - a man chosen by God to lead His people out of slavery in Egypt - faced a hard time in the wilderness, as the Israelites, having lived through years of torture and discrimination in the hands of Pharaoh  mocked him, daring him to take them back to Egypt. 

 

An illustration of Moses facing opposition from the same people he had rescued from slavery

The incumbent fourth president of independent Kenya Uhuru Kenyatta has transformed the country to notable standards. His good deeds include free maternal care, provision of eletric power to almost all regions of the republic, construction of roads, revival of long ‘dead’ parastatals and firms, improved health care, service delivery at the grassroots level, better security and the mega SGR project that has raised the nation’s image globally. But the son of Jomo has found himself on the receiving end from the 'Joshua'-led opposition. 

The president addresses a mammoth crowd in Embu, where he endorsed governor Wambora

Perhaps it is human nature, for still the Son of Man, Jesus Christ was equally not spared. After teaching the ignorant, healing the sick, raising the dead, feeding multitudes, transforming water into wine and all the other deeds the savior did, he remained unpopular in his home area. Later, the people demanded to have a convicted criminal freed in place of a loving, caring Messiah sent from heaven. 

An illustration of the torture Jesus Christ went through to save mankind

In the same way, governor Wambora is another victim of this peculiar human phenomenon. Ciiko (Actions), as the humble leader is commonly referred to, has been unfairly treated by some opposing forces within the rich highland county - The land of opportunities. He had had to go through a vigorous political scheme to have him impeached in his maiden days as the first governor of Embu. He however went ahead to beat his political foes when the court cleared him and declared him innocent.

In conclusion, Moses, the man of God delivered the children of Israel from slavery. Christ Jesus, the lamb of God won against every battle that he encountered, including defeating death after three days and delivered all believers from eternal damnation. Going by these viable  and real examples, it would be any wise man’s guess that come August 8th , Uhuru and Wambora will be winners, just like Moses and Jesus.

POLITICAL DESPERATION By Envious Politician Endangers Citizens' Lives

The torn down governor's billboard at Kibugu market in Embu. A defeatist action by desperate opponents. 

Jealousy seems to have taken over the emotions of one of the aspirants contending against Governor Wambora for the Embu gubernatorial position.

The billboard while being erected the previous day

According to eye witnesses interviewed at the crime scene, the perpetrators arrived at Kibugu market around 2am on 7/7/17 in three vehicles with covered number plates. They also wielded firearms. Using a ladder, they climbed up the metal frame and tore off governor Wambora's billboard. One of the watchmen we interviewed said that he dared not get close enough to identify any of them for fear of getting shot.

THE IMPACT

Sympathetic supporters of the incumbent governor said that the haters might have torn down the billboard but they didn't tear up their votes. Neither did they tear up the tarmacked Kibugu road nor any other development projects initiated by Governor Wambora, which include: Installation of State-of-The-Art buildings and equipment at Embu level 5 hospital, ECDE school milk program, and employment of 500 nursery school teachers on permanent and pensionable basis, among others.

"In fact, the shameful act has made us love governor Wambora all the more." Commented one of the residents, as others agreed with her in unison,

REMEDIAL ACTION

As we speak, investigations are under way. The fact that firearms were involved blows the whole affair out of proportion, so that it is no longer political sabotage but a criminal activity. Now that watchers have been deployed to watch over other billboards, let it be known that only one of the criminals needs to be identified and once arrested...their goose is cooked! They'll definitely spill the beans.

WHEN THE ‘RAT’ Decided To Drink From The SAME BOWL OF MILK As THE 'CAT'!

Lenny joining the president's convoy is like rat drinking milk
from the cat's bowl 

Wonders will never cease! 

Ever heard of the rat that shared the same bowl of milk with the cat? Considering that both the milk and the rat is food for the cat...  

It doesn’t take rocket science to tell what will happen once the milk is finished…

Now, before you dismiss this picture as offensive, let’s have a political look at it. 

When President Uhuru Kenyatta visited Embu County recently, he and Deputy President William Ruto had this purpose in mind: To kindly ask the electorate from the region to vote for them in the upcoming general election. They had also visited to drum up support for those aspirants vying for other seats on the Jubilee Party ticket. That is, those who emerged victorious in the party primaries held earlier in the year.

For the gubernatorial seat, the incumbent governor H.E Martin Wambora was the winner, while his main competitor, Lenny Kivuti had ran away from the battle and ditched Jubilee Party for Maendeleo Chap Chap. It was therefore quite unbecoming for Mr. Kivuti to tug along the president’s convoy, knowing very well that he had betrayed the party. No wonder the president didn’t recognize him but spoke highly of governor Wambora.

Looking at the top picture artistically, the president’s visit was the bowl of milk, and you can tell as much as I can, who between ‘cat’ and ‘rat’ is likely to devour the other once the milk is finished. (Politically speaking)

   

MORAL OF THE STORY: It is not very wise for one to insist on sharing his competitor’s meal. 

…OF MYTHS, TABOOS AND POLITICS.

Businessman Kithinji Kiragu (Left) with Embu
governor, Martin Wambora

You are about to know the reason why some politicians will never win…

Long long before the so-called civilization – when people would comfortably use leaves picked from path-side shrubs to wipe off mucus their noses and dispose them, as opposed to today when we use handkerchiefs and put the waste back into our pockets – children were so obedient to their parents and so disciplined as far as adhering by the societal norms was concerned. 

Instead of Law Courts and the Penal Code, rules would be passed along from generation to generation through a network of myths, folk tales and taboos propagated by their elders.

Traditional African elders; propagators of the taboo system

In spite of modern education, westernization and all brainwashing that has evolved over the years, the African traditional belief system still holds strong. When a father instructs his son on what to do and what not to before the former passes away, the latter will follow the instructions to the letter, lest calamity befall him. For instance,  we have had cases of some men who have sold ancestral land against their late fathers’ instructions, and ended up becoming desperately poor. But before I go on and on with examples, allow me to relate all this to politics today, specifically politics of Embu County (Siasa za Embu)

gubernatorial aspirant Leonard Muriuki 

According to reliable sources, one of the five gubernatorial aspirants in ‘the land of opportunity’ (Embu), may well be a victim of this traditional belief system. The five are businessman Kithinji Kiragu (KK), former P.S Cyrus Njiru, entrepreneur Leonard Muriuki, lands magnate Lenny Kivuti (LK) and the incumbent governor, Martin Wambora. 

Former P.S Cyrus Njiru

Those who are in the know inform us that the businessman in the list had been sternly warned by his late father, not to engage in politics. He had been advised to do business only and avoid politics by all means; that if he would involve himself in politics, something will always happen to make him unsuccessful.

As it appears, the man seems to have been haunted by his late father’s directive, judging by the many years he has sought an elective position and failed miserably every time. Well, his businesses do quite well, but politics is evidently not for him.    

IS IT TRUE THAT KIVUTI IS A DISEASE?

A baby suffering from 'Kivuti' (Flu) getting attended to. PHOTO: Courtesy 

It was just the other day at the office. Everyone was completely engrossed in doing what they do best. Suddenly the chairman came in, with his five-year-old son. 

Given the circumstances surrounding the work we were doing, it was a bit hard for him to break the ice until his little boy came to his rescue.

“Dad, is it true that Kivuti is a disease?” 

The boy innocently asked, looking up at his father.

Everyone burst out laughing, to the consternation of the already anxious young man. The laughter was so loud that it drowned out the voice of the chairman, as he tried to keep a straight face while he answered his son in the affirmative.

“Yes, Kivuti is the Kiembu word Flu or influenza.” 

After the laughter had substantially subsided, one very gifted orator, also a medical doctor among us went into a rhetoric of explaining to the then extremely mystified boy, all about Flu - that it is an acute, febrile and highly contagious viral disease, symptomized by a running nose, headache, fever and general discomfort.

A man suffering from the flu (common cold)

Noting that the young man seemed not satisfied with the answer he had received, another member of the team; a politician to the core, continued to further explain to the obviously highly intelligent boy that Kivuti is also the name of the former Embu senator, who now wants to become Governor.

Former Embu Senator, Lenny Kivuti with the incumbent governor Martin Wambora

“But how can a disease become governor?”

Wondered the boy before running out of the office to play around his father’s car. 

Each one of us was left to silently contemplate the youngster's remarks. 

CONCLUSION: If the meaning of people's names is anything to go by, then the people of Embu have no reason to vote for Kivuti the 'Flu' while the name Wambora means 'of goodness'.

GOVERNOR WAMBORA CATCHES 'The mole' By Offering What It Needs Most - Economic empowerment

Deputy President William Ruto with Igembe Central MP, Mithika Linturi chew miraa during a meeting with miraa growers. PHOTO: Courtesy/DPPS/the-star.co.ke

'The mole' in this article represents the Mbeere (Lower Embu) electorate

Earlier this year, The National Miraa Taskforce kicked off the registration process for Khat (Muguka) farmers in Embu County, in a bid to put up projects from the Sh1billion miraa kitty set aside last year. 

Embu governor Martin Wambora's ingenuity has worked for him again; he prioritized the project, to the joy of Mbeere people, whose main economic activity is Muguka farming. Working hand in hand with the office of the incumbent governor, the task force formed an implementation committee led by Embu Team Leader, Rufus Miriti. The Committee has done a 10-day recruitment drive in Mbeere North and South Sub-counties, to establish the number of miraa farmers in the area and their location. Once the number is established they will recommend on the type of projects apt to counter the farmers' challenges, depending on their priority areas and diverse needs.

Members of the committee when they paid a courtesy call to the Deputy Clerk, County Assembly of Embu

While praising the (County) leadership, Mr. Miriti said that government will now be dealing directly with the farmers through their various savings and cooperative societies, so that those cartels and middlemen who have been exploiting miraa farmers are eliminated. He spoke at the County Assembly of Embu during a courtesy call on the Deputy Clerk Roslyn Miano recently.

The funds will be used to construct dams, water pans and boreholes for irrigation in the semi-arid region that predominantly depends on the herb for their livelihood.

A prominent muguka farmer at his farm in Mbeere, Embu County

THE POLITICAL IMPACT

Politically, governor Wambora's government has endeared itself to the residents of the lower Embu (Mbeere), which has been considered hostile to him hitherto. The effect of this exercise is likely to be that more  people from the region will be happy with the current government and would therefore vote in it's  favor come 8/8/2017, as the projects can only be fully implemented in the second term (2017 - 2022). It's a win-win situation.

'VITU FRESH!' GOVERNOR WAMBORA Penetrates and Creates New Markets for Fresh Farm Produce From Embu.

Enhanced economic activity in fresh farm produce

AGRICULTURE, and more so agribusiness is the the backbone of economic activity in Kenya, given the vast plantations of the Rift Valley and the green highlands of Mt. Kenya; particularly Embu County.

In his efforts to maximumly contribute to the economic development of this blessed land, governor Martin Wambora, through the MINISTRY OF TRADE, TOURISM, INVESTMENT AND INDUSTRIALIZATION, has promoted business and entrepreneurial culture in the County by creating a conducive environment for wealth creation and prosperity of his people. To actualize this dream, the following 27 are SOME of the projects initiated and accomplished across Embu County under Wambora's leadership:

1. Kirimari Fresh Produce Market

2. Embu Town Hawkers Stalls

3. Majimbo Open Air Market

4. Kambo Open Air Market

5. Kimangaru Open Air Market

6. Kithimu Fresh Produce & Livestock Market

7. Ndatu fresh Produce Market

8. Kibugu Open Air Market

9. Kibugu Sho-Map Market

10. Mbuvori Open Air Market

11. Kevote Open Air Market

12. Karingari Open Air Market

13. Mukuuri Open Air Market

14. Kanja Open Air Market

15. Kianjokoma Open Air Market

16. Mugui Open Air Market

17. Gitare Market flood  light

18. Ena Open Air Market

19. Ugweri Open Air Market

21. Kathanjuri Open Air Market

22. Karurumo Sho-Map Market

23. Siakago Open Air Market

24. Kanyuambora Open Air Market

25. Gategi Open Air Market

26. Makutano Market

27. Makutano Jua Kali Market

Floodlights installed at most of trading centers in Embu

To make it even better, all the above market places are so well lit by floodlights that business activities continue till late, without fear of insecurity.

'Watu wa Embu wauliza, "Nani mwingine kama si Wambora?"' (The people of Embu ask, "If not Wambora for governor, who else?")

TO BE GENEROUS IS TO BE PROSPEROUS'; This Scriptural Truth Stands True in Politics Too.

Lubricant for the political machine

King Solomon put it down eons ago,
'... and to be generous is to be prosperous...'

Considering that this ancient King of Israel is universally known to have been the wisest and the wealthiest king in the history of world politics, it would only be wise to assume that this wise saying truly works! Not like it hasn't been proved by some of the greatest scholars and politicians, anyway. No wonder Kenya's opposition leader, RAO was in Israel to 'face the wall'.

Generosity is the willingness to give. On the other hand, the willingness to receive on the part of the beneficiary is innate; inborn so to say. Almost everyone wants to be given.

In the last few days following the Jubilee Party Primaries, I have been back to the ground more regularly than before, whereby I have interacted with the voters, especially the youth in my Constituency, engaging them in political debates, with the intention of learning their stand and that of the majority. 

This has been some kind of an informal poll survey, and tell you what; if there is a subject that keeps the youthful voter glued to his place, it is that of monetary generosity by various aspirants seeking elective positions in August 2017. The appetite for free money has increased in consequence to the skyrocketing prices of basic food stuffs. In effect, that politician who dishes out cash in these hard times is likely to win more favour with the electorate than that who does public good in form of development projects. 

'CIIKO' - Actions by Governor Wambora

It is indeed a crucial time for some politicians to change tact, especially those contending on the Jubilee Party ticket, in the Party's strongholds. Embu County is one of these strongholds. In such regions, the sharp rise in the price of maize flour, sugar and milk, is costing the Jubilee government it's popularity leading to more and more people resolving to defect to NASA, or to at least not vote for any JP candidate come the general election in August. Embu is the only County in Kenya where there is no candidate vying on a NASA ticket, after all.

That, coupled with claims that some Presiding Officers and clerks in the Primaries conducted almost three weeks ago haven't been paid to date, means that the incumbent Governor, Martin Wambora will have to up his game.  It is time he realized that any failure by JP is indirectly connected to him, and the longer those whose input contributed to his success remain disgruntled the more the erosion of voters from his camp. In the meantime, his competitors; Senator Lenny Kivuti, Kithinji Kiragu and Leonard Muriuki are traversing the county, seriously wooing Hon. Cecily Mbarire's former diehards, with cash money as their main incentive. Nevertheless, Mbarire's votes are so swing and scattered all over the county that the assertion that her voters have decamped to Lenny's side is far-fetched - just a publicity gimmick. 

Remember this?

Now this!

Word on the ground: Governor Wambora needs to keep his 60K+ votes garnered in the Primaries, and target to double the number come August. With sufficient online presence, well motivated pillars on the ground and the right running mate to be named on Wednesday 17th May, he's got it wrapped. 

MORE FIRE! Gubernatorial Race in Embu County Phase 2 Gathers Speed

Embu gubernatorial aspirant Kithinji Kiragu (left) with incumbent Governor Martin Wambora at the latter's office in the past

Political perambulations by Embu Senator and gubernatorial aspirant Lenny Kivuti, characterised by massive voter bribery have turned many a youth in upper Embu County into idlers; an unproductive lot. You will find that wherever the rich businessman but poor orator perches to give out cash hand outs, hundreds of young men and women will be seen loitering around with nothing to do but wait as patiently as vultures til they get that two or one hundred shillings then accompany him to the next centre for more. 

Villagers wait expectantly for Lenny's hand outs

It's actually not much different from the shenanigans of the proverbial stork (ngune mbooro) that after 'fishing' one frog from the water, will place it aside and go ahead to fetch another, only for the first prey to jump back into the river to be caught again. In the end the poor preditor flies away with a single frog. It would therefore not be a surprise to find that the politician, who was once overheard saying that he will buy Embu voters like green vegetables (sukuma wiki) ends up giving so much money to very few individuals and errorniously hope to have made an impact. Talk of fetching water using a gunney bag! How sad and sorry.

The other aspirant, Kithinji Kiragu, popularly known as KK seems to have his goose cooked early. After being very active (sic, passive) on social media following what people say but saying nothing himself, he at last posted something, and what came out of the aged brain was pure venom. His quick temper became his destruction when he prided himself as one who doesn't argue with fools as people won't know the difference. He forgot diplomacy, but then, that's how the cookie crumbled.

KK is rich enough to brand himself properly, but poor in people skills; he is said to rarely talk to commoners

Leonard Muriuki, the other gubernatorial aspirant with a future has gained favour with the young and the inexperienced as far as politics is concerned. Well, the guy is a gifted public speaker, yes, but one small mistake on his part may cost him. In politics, just as in courtship, it is always wise to keep people guessing. Leo has however made a fatal error by following Lenny's lead and naming his running mate so early. The two don't seem to know that naming a running mate before the right time only gives opponents grounds for attack. Those who are against any politician who does that will not only mudsling the candidate but his deputy as well. To make matters worse, whom did the political infant, as he has come to be referred to as, named? Former Ambassador S.M.K Gakumu. 

Gubernatorial aspirant Leonard Muriuki (left) with running mate SMK Gakumu

Now, I don't have anything personal against the former Principal, Nguviu Boys High School. In fact, so many successful middle aged men today will testify to have tasted Mr. Gakumu's whip, which he seemed to use needlessly sometimes, and with obvious pleasure. That's not the point though, but old boys of that record-setting school will tell you that the man was an academic sadist. The point is, S.M.K is more of an ideologist than a politician. When he resigned from his Ambassadorial job to vie as Embu Governor in 2013, he was thrashed at Primaries. Now what political analysts wonder is, how do you pick a political failure as a running mate and expect to win? Leo has been advised to keep his ante up as he prepares for 2022 - people might consider him then.

That leaves us with the incumbent, Governor Martin Wambora. The much tried and tested leader has come to be known as one with the nine proverbial lives of the cat, after beating Runyenjes MP Hon Cecily Mbarire in the recent JP Primaries, inspite of so many attempts to derail him during the course of his tenure. Mr. Wambora, fondly referred to as 'Ciiko' owing to his development record, has shown himself to be a wise man, an able leader who has made Embu shine. 

Some of Governor Wambora's complete projects in Embu County

This humble politician plays his cards in such a cool manner that some people have judged him to be more of a manager than a politician. Albeit so much negativity directed towards him, he has held the county together and those with the interests of Embu at heart will concur that he deserves a second term. He has not yet named his running mate but the moment he does, the deal is sealed. Watch this space!