“Just Give Out Money”: Mbadi’s Warning to MCA Aspirant Sparks Uproar

Whispers turned into gasps when Treasury CS John Mbadi told a young political hopeful to forget the ballot and focus on donations. His sharp directive didn’t just rattle the meeting—it lit a fire online.

During a local gathering in Homa Bay, Mbadi openly warned an unnamed MCA aspirant to shelve his ambitions and instead offer financial support. “Just give out money, but we don’t want to hear that you’re running,” he said. The remarks immediately drew backlash, with many Kenyans accusing him of gatekeeping and undermining democratic ideals.

Insiders claim the MCA hopeful intends to challenge a sitting ward rep loyal to Mbadi. The CS appeared determined to shield the incumbent from internal competition, arguing it was not yet time for change. However, critics say this kind of political shielding is what keeps fresh voices locked out of leadership.

Kenyans on X, formerly Twitter, were quick to react. “This is exactly why youth shy away from politics,” one user wrote. Another posted, “Leadership is not a preserve of a few chosen by elders.” The digital outcry has since ballooned into a larger debate over political inclusion.

Mbadi has not formally responded to the backlash, and no official clarification has come from his office. Allies claim he meant to promote unity, not exclusion, by avoiding vote-splitting. Others insist the statement reflects a long-standing power dynamic that punishes new contenders.

With elections still years away, this early warning has already made ripples in political circles. Whether the unnamed aspirant will obey or defy the powerful CS remains unknown. But one thing is certain—youth voices are rising, and they’re listening carefully.