Machakos Senator Agnes Kavindu is facing criticism from a section of MCAs who accuse her of opposing the construction of the Muwongoni Dam, a major water project earmarked to benefit thousands of residents across the county.
Kinanie/Mathatani Ward MCA Francis Kavyu led the onslaught, alleging that the Senator is following in the footsteps of her ex-husband, former Senator Johnson Muthama, whom he accused of frustrating key development projects in the past.
“When Muthama was Senator, he opposed the development of Machakos City by then-Governor Alfred Mutua. Now, Senator Kavindu is doing the same with Muwongoni Dam, someone lied to the Senator that there might be a few pieces of land remaining, and she can get so that she is also compensated,” said Kavyu.
He noted that the proposed dam would supply water to residents in Mua, Machakos Town, Masii, and Kyumbi—regions that continue to face perennial water shortages.
According to Kavyu, the national government has already allocated Sh1 billion for the project.
Mutituni MCA Johanna Munyao echoed the sentiments, warning that continued opposition to development projects could tarnish Senator Kavindu’s legacy.
“You claim Muthama is your political mentor, but if you continue denying people access to clean water, your legacy will reflect that,” said Munyao.
Kalama MCA Boniface Maeke also weighed in, urging the senator to shift focus towards championing development in the county rather than opposing it.
Machakos MP Caleb Mule also took a swipe at the Senator, asking her not to bring darkness to Machakos.
“Such a big project, even people give their land without compensation. Water that will benefit the entire Machakos, we will not joke with that 2.4 billion. I will not relent, let’s leave politics out of development.” Caleb added.
Compensation issues have slowed Muwongoni dam construction, Machakos Senator Agnes Kavindu has been firm that the dam construction cannot continue without locals being compensated accusing some of the Machakos leaders of eyeing parcels of land in the area to be compensated.
