Makueni Senator Daniel Kitonga Maanzo speaking at an Event in Kikuumini, Makueni County on November 25, 2025. Photo Courtesy . 
By Ryan Mumo
Senator Daniel Kitonga Maanzo has accused President William Ruto’s team of orchestrating a campaign of intimidation, false promises, and oppression during his recent visit to Makueni County.
Speaking at an event in Kikuumini, Makueni County, Senator Maanzo alleged that several citizens were abducted and brutally beaten for opposing the president’s directives. “In Kilome, people were brought in with army personnel, and if you shouted ‘WANTAM!’ you were dragged into the forest and beaten. One person had to be admitted to Sultan Hospital for treatment,” he said, condemning what he described as extra-judicial acts that violate citizens’ rights.
Senator Maanzo also criticized what he called “political cinema,” alleging that projects launched during the president’s visit were mere displays for public attention.
He pointed out that the Emali-Ukia road, touted as a government achievement, was abandoned immediately after the ceremony, leaving only a signboard. “Now what happened? They launched nothing. There was no road to be constructed. It was all cinema,” Maanzo said.
On the Thwake Dam project, the Senator lamented that promised funds were revoked, and on environmental issues, he criticized the government’s response to oil spillages in Thange and the condition of Nairobi River.
“The Thange oil spillage has caused many deaths, yet the president seemed indifferent. Regarding Nairobi River, despite claims that it is clean, it is not,” he said.
Senator Maanzo also raised concerns about affordable housing initiatives, noting a discrepancy in pricing. “He [President Ruto] told me housing would cost KSh 48,000 for Makueni citizens, yet in town he said KSh 3,000. I cannot comply with being forced to say ‘TUTAM’,” he said, vowing to hold firm against political manipulation.
He concluded by challenging the government to honor contractual obligations and ensure transparency in project implementation, warning that citizens would hold officials accountable for any further deception.
