Kisii County’s Nyaribari Chache MP Zaheer Jhanda Monday vowed to continue distributing beans and rice to residents in his constituency, rubbishing a wave of criticism that the practice amounts to voter bribery and undermines democratic processes.
The legislator said the food parcel distributions were part of his long-standing commitment to support vulnerable households, not a tactic to influence political loyalty.
“People are hungry today, not after the next election,” Jhanda told residents of Bobaracho Ward during a meeting at Kamel Park Hotel.
“If I have the means to help, I will help. Those calling it vote-buying are out of touch with the realities on the ground.They are just envious for nothing.”
The MP has been conducting routine food drives since the onset of the cost-of-living crisis.
The practice has however raised criticism from his opponents who argue that such initiatives should be implemented through transparent community programs rather than being spearheaded by individual politicians.
Others however, say Jhanda was playing to the gallery of the poor and milking huge political capital out of the vulnerable.
Despite the criticism, the MP said he would not be distracted and he will continue reaching out to the vulnerable with the constituency and no amount of negative energy from those opposing him would dissuade him.
“My conscience is clear. As long as there is need, I will continue standing with my people.”
Separately , Jhanda reiterated his commitment to accelerating development projects across his constituency, assuring residents that ongoing initiatives will be completed and new ones introduced to address long-standing challenges.
Priority, he said, remains improving infrastructure across the constituency.
He further highlighted several projects currently underway, including road rehabilitation and school renovations.
“We are pushing for tangible, visible development—projects that change people’s lives,” Jhanda told residents.
“My team and I are working closely with government departments to ensure that our constituency receives its fair share of resources.”
Jhanda added that he is still consulting widely with community leaders to ensure development plans reflect local needs.
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