From Left: Former Mbooni MP Kisoi Munyao and the Current MP Erastus Kivasu. 
By Andrew Mbuva.
A heated political exchange has erupted between Mbooni MP Erastus Kivasu and his predecessor Kisoi Munyao, exposing deep divisions over the handling of relief food distribution in the constituency.
The confrontation, which played out in a popular Mbooni WhatsApp group on Monday evening, was triggered by reports of a stampede during a recent government-led food distribution exercise at Kikima. The incident, widely covered by local media, left four women injured and raised concerns about the management of relief efforts.
Kisoi, who presided over the distribution alongside Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, dismissed the reports as fabricated, alleging that the victims were coached and linking Kivasu to the media coverage. However, Kivasu strongly denied the claims, urging his predecessor to “come clean” and take responsibility for the incident.
“This is Government of Kenya relief food with clear procedures for distribution. It is not personal property,” Kivasu stated, cautioning against politicizing humanitarian aid. He further warned that 'Mwolyo' should not be used as a political tool, emphasizing that while residents are in need of food, due process must be followed.
In a sharp rebuttal, Kisoi accused Kivasu of undermining a government initiative meant to support struggling residents amid prolonged drought. He defended the distribution exercise, insisting it would proceed regardless of opposition.
“You have nothing to say here. Your people are suffering, yet you are busy fighting an initiative meant to help them. Shame!” Kisoi retorted, adding that efforts to deliver food aid would continue “whether you like it or not.”
The former MP also questioned Kivasu’s development record, accusing him of failing to lobby effectively for the constituency. He cited his own contributions, including borehole projects, while challenging the current MP’s leadership.
The exchange quickly escalated into personal attacks, with both leaders trading accusations of incompetence, sabotage, and poor leadership. Kisoi went further to accuse Kivasu of mistreating constituents during bursary issuance forums, while Kivasu maintained that facts surrounding the relief operation could not be ignored.
Amid the political back-and-forth, residents also weighed in on the issue. One contributor, James Mule, supported the distribution of food aid but urged leaders to adopt sustainable solutions.
“Giving food is important, especially now with failed rains, but we need quality certified seeds to ensure long-term food security,” he said.
The dispute underscores growing political tensions in Mbooni ahead of the 2027 General Election, where Kivasu and Kisoi are expected to face off once again. Kivasu is currently serving his second term, having defeated Kisoi in the previous two elections.
Observers say the row reflects a broader struggle for political influence in the region, with relief food distribution increasingly becoming a flashpoint in local leadership battles.
As the war of words continues, residents remain caught between competing narratives, even as calls grow louder for leaders to prioritize service delivery over political rivalry.
