By Suleiman Mbatiah
A section of Nakuru leaders has accused Nakuru Senator Tabitha Keroche of neglecting her constitutional responsibilities and engaging in what they term political theatrics that do not advance the county’s development interests.
Led by Nakuru Town East MP David Gikaria, the leaders claimed the senator has focused more on public rhetoric than substantive legislative work in the Senate. They accused her of making sensational statements at churches, funerals and press briefings instead of pursuing formal oversight and accountability mechanisms.
The criticism follows recent remarks by Senator Keroche alleging that Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika diverted county funds to construct a planned six-star hotel on Kenya Railways Corporation land near State House, Nakuru. Gikaria said such allegations were serious and should have been reported to the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission and raised formally in the Senate for investigation, rather than being aired publicly.
Gikaria, who disclosed that he leases land from Kenya Railways in Nakuru, explained that such arrangements are lawful leasehold agreements in which Kenya Railways retains ownership while investors receive usage rights for a specified period. He added that the hotel project belongs to Governor Kihika’s spouse, businessman and philanthropist Sam Mburu, whom he described as having built his wealth through clearing, forwarding and transport businesses.
The MP further accused the senator of failing to effectively represent Nakuru, citing her absence from joint lobbying efforts by county leaders seeking national government support for development projects. He referenced a recent presidential visit, noting that Senator Keroche attended the launch of the Rironi–Mau Summit superhighway in Kiambu County but failed to attend a separate engagement when President William Ruto visited Nakuru.
Nakuru Town West MP Samuel Arama criticised churches for giving the senator platforms, accusing her of spreading misinformation and deepening political divisions. He also questioned her repeated mention of Mburu, noting that he is not an elected leader and has limited avenues to respond. Senator Keroche has declared interest in the Nakuru governorship in 2027.
Businessman Maina Wakabura accused the senator of prioritising political confrontations over legislation, oversight and advocacy for equitable resource allocation, arguing this has weakened Nakuru’s influence in the Senate. He also cited unresolved employment disputes involving staff in her office.
In response, Senator Keroche defended her actions, saying she was exercising her oversight mandate and would not be intimidated, insisting her efforts were in the public interest.
Mt Kenya Times