Wamuzi News Ke
A political storm is unfolding in Embu after residents accused Governor Cecily Mutitu Mbarire of disrespecting them during a public event where adults were allegedly handed lollipops instead of receiving answers to their long-standing demands for improved services.
The incident, which has fueled heated reactions both on the ground and online, has triggered widespread criticism directed at the governor and UDA’s leadership. Residents say the gesture was not only demeaning but also symbolic of a government that has ignored urgent development priorities.
According to locals who attended the event, Embu residents had gathered to raise concerns over deteriorating healthcare services, stalled road projects, insecurity in several wards, and lack of access to clean water. Instead, they claim the governor’s team distributed sweets to the crowd, a move many interpreted as mockery rather than engagement.
Community leaders and youth groups have condemned the act, calling it the lowest point in county politics this year.“This is not entertainment. Embu people are asking for clean hospitals, working roads, salaries for workers, and transparency in county projects. What they received instead was an insult,” said a vocal youth leader from Manyatta.
Political analysts say the backlash puts Mbarire, also the UDA national chairperson, in a challenging position as her leadership style faces intense scrutiny. Critics argue that the event exposed a widening disconnect between the county leadership and the electorate.
The controversy has also sparked renewed debate about the conduct of county executives across Kenya, with residents of Embu demanding respect, accountability, and tangible development rather than symbolic gestures.
As pressure mounts, leaders aligned with the ruling coalition are pushing the governor to issue an explanation, fearing the growing uproar could reshape voter sentiment ahead of upcoming political contests.
Whether the county government will respond to the allegations remains unclear, but the anger on the streets of Embu continues to rise as residents insist they will not tolerate being treated casually while essential public services continue to deteriorate.
