Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua’s revelation that he plans to use Sh18 billion for his presidential campaigns in 2022 has elicited reactions among residents.
Mutua made the confession on Sunday night during an interview on Citizen TV’s Sunday Live, stating that he is very serious in his bid to succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2022.
The embattled governor said he has already set campaign strategy team in place.
Mutua added that the team comprises of foreigners, noting that he is ready for the 2022 race.
The governor’s revelation is now a matter of discussion among Machakos residents.
Majority of residents are now questioning Mutua’s planned budget.
The locals who took to social media platforms mostly facebook; Kamba politics, Machakos county forum, Machakos United forum among others want Mutua to reveal the source of his planned budget.
“@Alfred Mutua, you cannot be telling Kenyans to undergo lifestyle audit yet you plan to use 17 Billion on campaigns, where is the source of this money,” Shadrack Muli said.
“17 Billion for campaigns! Seriously, Mutua should tell us more on where he plans to get this money,” John Kasolo said.
“@ Uhuru Kenyatta please start with Mutua in lifestyle audit,” Josephine Nyamai said.
Joseph Mbalozi said, “How long has Mutua been in political office to afford 17 Billion? There is more he is not revealing.”
However, a section of residents says Mutua’s budget is too small compared to what others will use.
“@Alfred Mutua wants to be president with 17 Billion? He must be joking,” John Kilonzo said.
“Prepare for embarrassing defeat with 17 Billion, presidential election not a joke,” said Sheila Mutheu.
Mutua said his budget is hugely funded by well-wishers.
The Machakos boss said he is not afraid of big names and will battle it out in the ballot to succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Mutua’s 2022 political bid, however, hangs in the balance following the Court of Appeal's ruling that nullified his election two weeks ago.
The appellate court ruled that the August 8, 2017election that declared Mutua as governor was not free and fair.
The court ordered for a fresh gubernatorial election.
Mutua has since appealed the ruling at the Supreme Court.