He’s now serving his second term as Member of Parliament. A phase when most leaders consolidate legacy, secure loyalty and prepare for a higher office. Yet GK’s case is different. The roads he’s built haven’t tarmacked a path to favor. Instead, he faces mounting criticism, frustration and political resistance. Why?
---
A Shiny Surface With Unanswered Questions
The Kagio town roadworks launched officially on August 18th were expected to mark a turning point for the MP’s image. Dusty roads long neglected were suddenly full of activity. Bulldozers tearing through potholes, graders leveling pathways and rumors of long-term transformation began to spread.
But almost immediately, questions arose. Residents couldn’t tell whether the final surface was tarmac or cabros (paving blocks). There was no clear public communication about the full scope of the project. And for a population long conditioned to broken promises, confusion breeds skepticism. Is it another political show? Will it last? Who benefits?
As the construction continued, some residents began to complain that certain roads were left untouched. Others pointed to the lack of proper drainage, raising concerns that the new roads may not survive the rainy season. Even in areas where paving was progressing well, doubts lingered. When expectations run high and information runs low, dissatisfaction festers.
---
Finance Bill Fallout: The Vote That Sparked Rage
If there’s one moment that damaged GK’s public standing, it was his vote in favor of the Finance Bill 2024. That vote wasn’t just a political decision, it became a defining national moment.
The bill, which introduced higher taxes on essential goods and services was deeply unpopular. It sparked nationwide protests, some of which turned violent. In cities like Nairobi, police clashed with demonstrators. Some Kenyans lost their lives. The movement captured both national and international attention. And when the dust settled, constituents turned to ask: “How did my MP vote?”
GK was on the yes side aligning with government priorities but disconnecting from the daily struggles of wananchi. For many in Ndia and Kagio, this was a betrayal. Even residents who support infrastructure development couldn’t reconcile it with the increased cost of living they faced. It didn’t matter how wide the road was, if bread, unga and airtime were no longer affordable.
---
The Kagio Spotlight Leaves Others in the Dark
While Kagio town now boasts improved roads, other areas in Ndia remain largely neglected. Constituents in Gacharu, Muragara, Mutithi and other areas ask, what of us? Why is Kagio getting a lion’s share of resources?
The uneven development has stirred division. Some see the Kagio roads as favoritism, others as vote-hunting. For those outside the spotlight, the roads symbolize exclusion. A successful leader must be seen as fair, inclusive and visionary. When development appears selective, it invites backlash.
---
Lack of Communication and Public Involvement
A major complaint in GK’s leadership is the lack of community engagement. There were no major public barazas to explain the Kagio project before its launch. No official posters detailing phases, timelines or budgets. No involvement of youth groups, community elders or ward representatives.
In modern politics, communication is credibility. If people are left to guess whether it’s cabros or tarmac or whether their road is next, they grow distrustful. Infrastructure done without explanation feels imposed rather than welcomed.
---
The Youth Wave and Civic Awareness
A more politically aware generation is rising in Ndia. The youth are active on social media, discussing politics on TikTok, Facebook and X. They fact-check leaders in real-time. They know how their MP voted. They know how much a project should cost.
For GK, whose political base has traditionally leaned on older voters, this shift is significant. Today’s electorate demands transparency, inclusivity and digital engagement. A road alone no matter how well-paved it is, it is not enough to secure loyalty from a connected generation.
---
The 2027 Storm Looms
With the 2027 general election not too far away, GK must now wrestle with a constituency that feels unheard. The Kagio roads, though a major project, haven’t changed the public mood as he might have hoped. He now faces a real political dilemma: How to rebuild trust in a county where perception matters more than concrete.
Critics argue he’s out of touch. Supporters say he’s being unfairly targeted. But either way, the political temperature is rising. Behind closed doors, opponents are already strategizing. Whispers of challengers are circulating. Grassroots mobilization is underway.
---
Conclusion: Roads Alone Can’t Build Reputation
The lesson from GK’s experience is simple but profound: development must be people-centered. Roads, schools and water matter. But how they're delivered, who they serve and what values them back, those things matter more.
In Ndia, it’s not that people oppose roads. They oppose leaders who don’t listen, who vote for pain in the name of policy, and who forget that the best infrastructure is built on trust.
GK may have tarmacked Kagio but he still has a long way to go to rebuild the political road between him and his people.