Kitui, Kenya – February 2025
Cyrus Mutavi, the sitting Member of County Assembly (MCA) for Ikanga Ward in Kitui, has been arrested following months of controversy surrounding multiple theft allegations. The latest development comes after CCTV footage allegedly captured him stealing phone accessories worth Ksh1.9 million from a courier service.
Despite the mounting evidence and public outrage, Mutavi continues to enjoy unwavering support from his constituents, with some even suggesting that he has “bewitched” them into loyalty.
A Dramatic Fall from Grace
According to various social media reports, Mutavi first made headlines in October 2024 when he was dramatically caught in Nairobi’s city center allegedly stealing a parcel containing mobile phones. Eyewitnesses reported a chaotic scene as an angry mob surrounded him, demanding answers. Some even called for an impromptu public hearing before police intervened, rescuing him from potential violence.
He was booked at Kamukunji Police Station, but many assumed the case would fade away. However, fresh allegations emerged on February 8, 2025, when Buscar Courier Services released CCTV footage purportedly showing the MCA entering their premises and making off with high-value phone accessories.
CCTV Footage Seals the Case
The surveillance video, which has since gone viral, appears to show Mutavi calmly walking into the courier office, picking up the items, and leaving without authorization. Investigators say the stolen goods were worth Ksh1.9 million, leading to his eventual arrest.
Police sources confirm that Mutavi was taken into custody and is expected to face charges in court soon. If convicted, he could be forced to step down from his position as MCA, marking a stunning downfall for a once-respected local leader.
“Alituwekea Kamuti” – The Unshaken Loyalty of His Supporters
What has shocked many observers, however, is the unwavering support Mutavi still enjoys in Ikanga Ward. Despite the damning evidence, residents insist they will vote for him again, with some jokingly suggesting he has “cast a spell” on them.
“Alituwekea Kamuti,” one supporter told BBC News, a Swahili phrase loosely implying that Mutavi has charmed them into blind loyalty. Others dismiss the allegations as mere politics, claiming he is being framed.
“Hii ni siasa tu,” said another resident. “They don’t want him to lead because he fights for us.”
Political analysts say this phenomenon isn’t entirely new in Kenya, where some leaders maintain strong grassroots support despite facing serious legal and ethical challenges.
A Pattern of Controversy
Mutavi’s troubles did not begin with the recent theft accusations. Sources in Kitui say he has been a polarizing figure, with past allegations of misconduct. However, none have stuck—until now.
His arrest has reignited debates about accountability among elected officials. Civil society groups are calling for stricter oversight, arguing that leaders accused of crimes should step aside pending investigations.
“Public office is a privilege, not a right,” said activist Miriam Wambui. “If an MCA is caught stealing, how can we trust him with public funds?”
What Happens Next?
Under Kenyan law, an MCA can only be automatically removed from office if convicted of a crime and sentenced to more than six months in prison. Until then, Mutavi remains the Ikanga Ward representative, much to the frustration of his critics.
Legal experts say the case could take months, if not years, to conclude—meaning Mutavi may still contest the next election unless voters turn against him.
For now, his supporters remain defiant. At a recent gathering in Ikanga, chants of “Cyrus tuko nawe!” (Cyrus, we are with you!) echoed through the crowd, signaling that this scandal may not be the end of his political career.
Conclusion: A Test for Kenya’s Democracy
The case of Cyrus Mutavi raises critical questions about voter loyalty, accountability, and the power of political charm in Kenya. As the legal process unfolds, the world will be watching to see whether justice prevails—or whether, as his supporters believe, this is just another case of “hii ni siasa”.
Source: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16KwvrKZ8b
