Kisii gubernatorial hopeful Ezekiel Ombaki Machogu has accused Governor Simba Arati of engaging in what he termed as “panic politics,” arguing that the county leadership has shifted focus from service delivery to early campaigns ahead of the 2027 General Election.
In a statement shared Monday, Machogu claimed the governor is beginning to “come to terms with the reality that his time in office is coming to an end,” accusing him of prioritizing political survival over development.
“He now appears to have shifted focus away from service delivery to early politicking,” Machogu said. “Instead of working for the people, he is marking time in office. The people of Kisii deserve better.”
The former Education Cabinet Secretary, who unsuccessfully vied for the seat in 2022, criticized what he described as a lack of tangible results in key sectors, particularly healthcare.
“Leadership is not about constant chest thumping when hospitals do not have the essentials—it is about delivering results,” he added. “What we are seeing now is panic, not performance.”
Machogu’s remarks come amid heightened political activity by Governor Arati, who has recently intensified grassroots engagements as he seeks to solidify his support base. On Monday, the governor hosted a delegation of clerics from the Seventh-day Adventist Church at his Motonto residence, in a meeting widely interpreted as part of broader outreach efforts to religious leaders.
The SDA Church remains a significant influence in the Gusii region, with a large following across Kisii County.
Machogu also referenced another meeting between the governor and leaders from Nyaribari, alleging that he had become a subject of discussion.
“When leadership lacks direction, it looks for distractions,” he said. “If the focus is on individuals instead of development, then priorities are clearly misplaced.”
He further raised concern over what he termed as “reckless and dangerous claims” allegedly made by Arati, including accusations that he could orchestrate wrongdoing to frame the governor.
“Such allegations are not only false but deeply alarming,” Machogu said. “Leaders must rise above fear-mongering and focus on uniting and serving the people.”
The former CS questioned the utilization of county funds, citing what he described as deteriorating healthcare services despite substantial budget allocations.
“Why are our hospitals struggling when billions have been allocated?” he posed. “Where has the more than Sh60 billion disbursed over the past four years gone?”
Machogu also highlighted concerns over low tea bonuses for farmers, the use of tractors in road construction, and inconsistencies in bursary allocations for students.
“Our farmers are suffering, our roads are questionable, and our students are uncertain about their future,” he said. “This is not the promise of devolution.”
Addressing past allegations linking him to a tea brokerage firm, Machogu clarified that the company ceased operations in 2009 and that his role was limited to serving as a director.
“That matter was concluded long ago and should not be used to divert attention from the real issues affecting Kisii residents,” he said.
Machogu, a former MP for Nyaribari Masaba and a key figure in the rollout of the Competency-Based Curriculum under President William Ruto, is among the leading contenders expected to challenge Arati in 2027.
He is likely to face competition from Dr. Enock Ondari, the former head of Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital, whose entry into the race is expected to sharpen debate around healthcare management and service delivery.
Political analysts say the emerging three-way contest could significantly reshape voter dynamics in Kisii County, setting the stage for a highly competitive race.
“This is not about personalities—it is about performance,” Machogu said. “Our people are tired of excuses. They want results. They want leadership that works.”
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