A fresh political showdown is brewing in Makueni County after former gubernatorial aspirant Philip Kaloki launched a sharp criticism of Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. over the alleged requirement that county employees take an oath of secrecy.In a strongly worded statement, Prof. Kaloki termed the move “institutional censorship,” arguing that it violates the principles of transparency and accountability guaranteed in the Constitution. He cited Articles 10 and 35, which emphasize public participation, transparency in governance, and citizens’ right to access information held by public institutions.Kaloki accused the county administration of prioritizing control over service delivery, saying the directive suppresses truth and shields government failures.“Compelling employees to take an oath of secrecy offends constitutional provisions on transparency and the public’s right to information.Suppressing truth invites waste and protects failure,” Kaloki said.The outspoken professor further challenged Governor Mutula to account for the nearly KSh 50 billion allocated to the county since the start of his administration, questioning whether residents have seen tangible development from the funds.“Where is the visible change?” Kaloki asked, calling for greater accountability in the management of public resources.Positioning himself ahead of the 2027 political contest, Kaloki pledged that if elected governor, he would immediately revoke the secrecy requirements within the county government.“This county needs performance, not paranoia,” he added.The remarks signal an escalating political rivalry as leaders begin positioning themselves early for the 2027 gubernatorial race in Makueni, setting the stage for what could become a heated contest over governance, transparency, and development.
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