Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi has alleged a well-coordinated campaign by corruption cartels and some political figures aimed at forcing him out of office. Speaking in Ngoliba market, Thika East Sub County, during the distribution of subsidized fertilizer to farmers, Wamatangi said numerous traps have been set for him across the county as part of this scheme.
The governor, who was recently arrested by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) over alleged procurement and financial malpractices, maintained that the corruption allegations were part of a broader plot to discredit his administration. He claimed that his firm stance against graft and misuse of public resources had made him a target for vested interests.
“Many traps have been laid on me in every part of the County. The politicians and cartels alike want me out because of my hard stance on corruption and theft of public property. However, I will not be intimidated,” he said. “I was given a five-year mandate which I intend to complete.”
Wamatangi specifically pointed to the controversial construction of Economic Stimulus Program (ESP) markets, which he said is a devolved county function. He criticized some Members of Parliament for allegedly hijacking the projects and trying to take control of public land. According to the governor, cartels have been eyeing land earmarked for these developments, leading to tension and even violence.
“Some traps have been set in the ongoing construction of ESP markets by the national government which MPs have hijacked. We have seen fights, deaths, and destruction of public property in efforts to stop the county government from getting involved,” he stated.
Despite the challenges, Wamatangi highlighted his administration’s achievements, noting a significant increase in county revenue. He said annual revenue collection rose from Sh2.9 billion in 2022 to Sh4.7 billion this year, attributing the growth to reforms and sealing of corruption loopholes.
“I will not surrender public land or allow theft of county resources. My mission remains to serve the people and protect what is rightfully theirs,” the governor concluded.
