The Tharaka Nithi County government has strongly rejected claims of fund diversion. The allegations involve a Sh45 million water project in Marimanti Ward.
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Governor Njuki distances himself from fund diversion claims as the Mukithi Water Project controversy fuels political tension in Tharaka Nithi. |
Meanwhile, the controversy has ignited intense political debate across the county. Residents now demand clarity and accountability from leaders.
Allegations Over Mukithi Water Project Spark Political Tension
The Mukithi Water Project remains at the center of the dispute. The project reportedly received funding from the National Drought Management Authority. However, critics claim the project stalled despite alleged fund allocation.
Marimanti MCA Kennedy Kamunyu raised the accusations publicly. He alleged the funds were either diverted or misused. Furthermore, he questioned the lack of visible work on the ground.
According to Kamunyu, a contractor received the tender earlier. Yet, no construction activity followed the reported award. Consequently, residents grew frustrated and demanded answers.
Governor Njuki Firmly Distances Himself From the Claims
Governor Muthomi Njuki’s office quickly issued a firm response. Officials denied any involvement in diverting project funds. They described the claims as propaganda driven by political interests.
County Communications Director Alex Njeru addressed the issue directly.
He emphasized that the water project remains a national government initiative. Therefore, the governor holds no operational control over it.
Njeru stressed that NDMA independently implements and pays contractors.
Thus, the county government lacks authority over such projects. Accordingly, he dismissed the accusations as misleading and baseless.
Questions Raised Over County Development in Marimanti Ward
Beyond the water project, Kamunyu raised broader development concerns.
He accused county leadership of sidelining Marimanti Ward. Additionally, he alleged deliberate exclusion from development planning.
Kamunyu argued that oversight roles faced constant interference. As a result, he claimed residents suffered prolonged neglect. Moreover, he highlighted poor infrastructure across the ward.
Road networks, in particular, sparked serious concern among residents.
Poor conditions continue to hinder transport and economic activity. Especially during rainy seasons, mobility becomes extremely difficult.
Road Maintenance Budget Sparks Fresh Accountability Debate
The MCA questioned the use of road maintenance funds. He cited an approved budget nearing Sh1 billion. However, he reported no visible improvements in his ward.
According to Kamunyu, the budget failed to translate into action. Consequently, residents questioned county priorities and transparency. They argued development appeared uneven across the county.
Meanwhile, community members joined road repair efforts themselves.
They worked along the Imenti–Tharaka border. The exercise highlighted desperation among affected villages.
Residents Voice Frustration Over Longstanding Infrastructure Challenges
Local residents echoed the MCA’s concerns. They described years of neglect and unfulfilled promises. Many said roads deteriorated since Governor Njuki assumed office.
Peter Murithi, a Marimanti resident, shared his frustration. He noted roads remained unattended for over eight years. Therefore, residents struggled with transport and access to services.
Murithi urged the county government to release road funds. He emphasized the urgent need for grading and upgrades. Otherwise, livelihoods would continue suffering unnecessarily.
County Government Rejects Claims of Ward Neglect
In response, Alex Njeru rejected claims of sidelining Marimanti Ward. He stated that development efforts reached all wards equitably.
Moreover, he clarified that accusations misrepresented reality on the ground.
Njeru identified himself as a Marimanti resident. Thus, he insisted the claims lacked credibility and balance. He labeled the narrative as politically motivated propaganda.
Furthermore, he accused opponents of spreading misinformation. According to him, such claims aimed to incite public dissatisfaction. Nevertheless, he reaffirmed the county’s commitment to service delivery.
Political Undercurrents Shape the Ongoing Dispute
The controversy reflects deeper political rivalries within the county.
As elections approach, development projects attract heightened scrutiny. Therefore, leaders often clash over accountability narratives.
While accusations intensify, residents seek tangible solutions. They prioritize water access, road quality, and fair resource distribution. Ultimately, political rhetoric must give way to service delivery.
Public Demand for Transparency and Clear Communication
Residents continue demanding transparency from all leaders. They want clear explanations regarding stalled projects. Additionally, they expect timely communication from authorities.
Public trust depends on visible action and honesty. Therefore, county and national agencies must collaborate openly. Only then can confidence in development processes improve.
Focus Shifts to Accountability and Development Outcomes
The Sh45 million water project controversy remains unresolved publicly.
However, official denials firmly distance Governor Njuki from wrongdoing. At the same time, residents demand measurable progress.
Moving forward, accountability will shape public perception. Equitable development remains a central expectation across Tharaka Nithi. Ultimately, results on the ground will determine the truth.
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