Machakos DG Francis Mwangangi Slams Government’s “Empowerment Program”, Questions Source of Funds

Machakos Deputy Governor Hon. Francis Mwangangi has launched a scathing attack on the national government's ongoing empowerment programs, accusing top leaders of using public resources without transparency under the guise of uplifting vulnerable groups across Kenya.

Speaking during a church service at Mananja Catholic Church in Masinga on Sunday, Hon. Mwangangi expressed concern over the millions of shillings being distributed across the country in what he termed as politically motivated handouts, disguised as economic empowerment for groups like women, youth, and boda boda operators."

"What we are seeing is a group of leaders moving around the country, dishing out millions in cash to Kenyans and calling it empowerment. We must ask tough questions: where is this money coming from? Who authorized its distribution? Is it in the budget?" he posed.

The Deputy Governor warned that the so-called empowerment drive is having a negative ripple effect on the economy, as it undermines structured economic policies and creates an illusion of progress.

"You cannot solve the country’s economic crisis by moving around with sacks of money. This is not empowerment, it is economic deception,” Mwangangi emphasized.

He further warned that such financial populism could destabilize the financial systems, increase dependency, and destroy efforts by counties and financial institutions to establish long-term development solutions.

Turning his attention to 2027 politics, Mwangangi rallied the faithful to support Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka, calling him a visionary leader with a solid track record and clean hands.

“We need a president who will bring order, dignity, and accountability to government. Kalonzo Musyoka is that leader. He has never stolen public funds, and he understands the pain of Kenyans. Let’s support him to bring sanity back to this country,” he declared.

His remarks come at a time when political temperatures are rising, with opposition figures increasingly criticizing the government’s handling of economic affairs and accusing it of weaponizing poverty for political gain.

Mwangangi’s sentiments are expected to ignite fresh debate over the transparency of national government programs ahead of the 2027 General Elections.