Storm Over Makueni Roads as MCAs Demand Accountability from Transport Department

By Andrew Mbuva.

Tensions flared in the Makueni County Assembly during the afternoon sitting as Members of County Assembly (MCAs) launched a scathing attack on the Department of Transport and Roads, accusing it of inefficiency, delayed procurement, and failure to address the deteriorating state of roads across the county.

The heated debate was triggered by a general statement tabled by Mbitinî MCA, Bernard Mutua, who sought clarity on the status of roads severely damaged during the recent rainy season. Mutua questioned why the department had lagged behind others in procurement processes, leading to delayed implementation of critical road works.

“My intention is to have the Executive Committee Member (ECM) explain to this House why there have been delays in procurement and implementation. Roads across Makueni have been washed away, making access nearly impossible in many areas,” he stated.

Mutua noted that the poor state of infrastructure had disrupted essential services, including access during burials and community functions, leaving residents stranded. 

Kako/Waia MCA Dennis Musyoka intensified the criticism, terming the matter urgent and straightforward. He expressed concern over the declining implementation rate within the department, noting that it had dropped from 23 percent in 2025 to 14 percent in the current financial year.

“We are now in the fourth quarter of 2026, with only one year remaining. At this rate, the department is regressing instead of progressing. This is a serious matter that requires immediate answers,” Musyoka said.

He further faulted the Roads ECM for failing to appear before the Assembly, despite being summoned, and dismissing claims that the department was still collecting data, arguing that engineers in all sub-counties should already have the necessary information.

Mavindini MCA Jonathan Kimongo called for decisive action from the appointing authority, stating that the department was in disarray. He questioned why senior officials, including the Chief Officer and the ECM, were still in office despite recurring audit queries.

“Things are in a mess. This issue was raised in last year’s audit report, and I fear it will be worse this year if no action is taken,” Kimongo warned.

Kasikeu MCA Rubben Kavai painted a grim picture of the situation on the ground, describing the condition of roads in his ward—and across most of the county—as “pathetic.” He cited instances where residents, including fellow leaders, could not access their homes due to impassable roads.

“The department keeps promising action, but nothing is happening. They are sleeping on their job, and action must be taken,” Kavai said.

The MCAs collectively accused Roads ECM Peter Mumo of incompetence and called on Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. to intervene and restore order within the department.

The County Assembly Deputy Speaker Francis Mulwa directed the Roads ECM to appear before the Committee of the Whole House next Wednesday at noon to respond to the concerns raised by members.

The unfolding standoff sets the stage for a crucial session next week, where the Roads ECM is expected to face tough questions from the Assembly over the department’s performance and the fate of road infrastructure across Makueni County.