The growing popularity of Gladys Mami Kivoto has dramatically altered the political landscape, leaving incumbent MP Kaki Nyamai scrambling to reconnect with voters after years of growing dissatisfaction. According to our moles say the once-comfortable political ground beneath the MP is becoming increasingly unstable.
On Sunday, the MP hosted boda boda riders from Mutomo/Kibwea Ward at her residence, where she reportedly pledged to address the challenges facing the sector. The meeting raised more questions than answers, with many wondering why such engagement is only taking place as the next election approaches. “Leadership should not wake up only when elections are around the corner,” one local political observer remarked.
According to sources who spoke to Hopkin Digital after the meeting, several riders questioned the MP’s record during her years in office. They argued that boda boda operators have long needed structured support, including road safety and traffic training, affordable accident insurance, financial literacy programs, SACCO strengthening, entrepreneurship training, access to protective riding gear, and stronger advocacy for safer working conditions. “These are issues we have lived with for years. Why are they only being discussed now?” one rider reportedly said.
Sources further alleged that after spending several hours at the meeting, participants received KSh 1,000 each as they left. Some riders reportedly dismissed the gesture as too little and too late, insisting that what Kitui South needs is long-term development rather than short-term financial handouts. “Money can buy lunch, but it cannot erase years of disappointment,” one attendee was quoted by the sources as saying.
Meanwhile, supporters of Gladys Mami Kivoto argue that the increasing frequency of public meetings by the incumbent reflects growing political pressure rather than renewed commitment to service delivery. They maintain that voters are becoming more focused on leadership records, accessibility, and tangible development instead of election-season promises.
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