Residents of Likuyani Constituency in Kakamega County are increasingly voicing frustration with their Member of Parliament, Hon. Innocent Maino Mugabe (ODM), accusing him of failing to initiate meaningful constituency-specific projects since his election in 2022. Critics claim the first-term legislator has instead focused on claiming credit for national government initiatives while allegedly orchestrating paid praise campaigns on social media and at public events.
Mugabe, who previously served as a chief officer in Mombasa County Government, won the Likuyani seat on an ODM ticket. Supporters highlight his involvement in efforts like teacher recruitment sensitization programs, bursary distribution through initiatives such as ElimuKwanza, and collaboration on projects including the Kakamega County Aggregation and Industrial Park, road tarmacking (e.g., Mapera–Kongoni–Furfural), transformer installations, and the upcoming Likuyani Huduma Centre and Magistrate’s Court.
However, a section of constituents and online discussions paint a different picture. Local voices on community platforms accuse the MP of “terrible delivery” and poor leadership, suggesting he has not adequately addressed long-standing issues such as last-mile connectivity, water projects, or local infrastructure beyond what national and county governments have driven. Some posts label him a “failure” and claim he is more visible at burials and public functions than in proactive development work.
Claims of Credit-Taking and Paid PraiseDetractors allege that Mugabe frequently attributes national government projects—such as road upgrades (Soy-Turbo, Matunda Affordable Housing), water and sewerage schemes, and power installations—to his personal efforts. “He is busy claiming what the national government is doing while our roads remain dilapidated and youth unemployment high,” one resident remarked in a local forum.
There are also unverified claims circulating that the MP has paid a small group of individuals to sing his praises on social media platforms and during funeral gatherings. These hired voices reportedly portray him as a dedicated leader focused on development, countering growing discontent ahead of the 2027 elections. Rivals like Dr. Evans Taracha and Deberious Shikuku have publicly criticized his management of the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF), particularly bursary allocation, alleging favoritism toward certain groups.
Mugabe has pushed back against opposition narratives, urging leaders to focus on development rather than confrontational politics and defending President William Ruto’s projects in Western Kenya. He has actively posted about ongoing works and opposed plans to scrap or alter NG-CDF, emphasizing its importance for local schools.
Mixed Record and Parliamentary ActivityParliamentary records show Mugabe has made several contributions, including speeches on teacher distribution, administration, and trade issues. His office highlights partnerships for skills training and job placement through the Innocent Mugabe Foundation.
Yet, as 2027 approaches, pressure is mounting. Residents demand greater transparency and direct constituency-driven projects rather than reliance on national initiatives. Whether Mugabe can turn the tide by delivering visible, attributable wins remains to be seen in Kenya’s competitive political landscape.
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