MP Defends Decision to Double Handouts to Constituents Amid Growing Debate
Nyaribari Chache Member of Parliament Zaheer Jhanda has come out strongly to defend his decision to increase the cash handouts he gives to residents, raising the amount from KSh500 to KSh1,000.
His remarks come after videos showing him distributing money to constituents spread widely across social media, sparking both support and criticism from different quarters.
Speaking to residents, Jhanda explained that the act of giving money to constituents did not start after he was elected into office.
He clarified that as early as 2022, while still campaigning, he had already begun giving out KSh500 to individuals as a way of appreciating their support and staying connected to the community.
According to him, this was not a new political tactic but a long-standing personal initiative that he has continued to maintain even after winning the parliamentary seat.
Now that he officially serves as the area MP, Jhanda stated that increasing the amount to KSh1,000 was a natural and expected step.
He told residents that his position comes with greater responsibility, and therefore the support he offers should also grow. In a bold statement, he even encouraged voters to demand similar or higher amounts from any of his political opponents who may seek support in the constituency.
“I have been campaigning since 2022, and during that time I was giving KSh500 per person as a sign of appreciation. Now that I am your MP, the amount will increase from five hundred to one thousand shillings,” Jhanda said while addressing a public gathering.
He went further to suggest that his move should set a new standard in the area, telling constituents that anyone coming to seek political support should be ready to match or exceed the KSh1,000 mark.
This statement has since fueled debate, with some viewing it as empowerment of voters, while others see it as a dangerous political trend.
The viral footage shows Jhanda confidently addressing a crowd, openly explaining his decision and the reasons behind it.
His remarks have attracted mixed reactions, with some residents praising him for directly supporting the community, while critics, including political analysts and civil society groups, have raised concerns about the implications of such actions.
Despite the backlash, Jhanda remained unapologetic. He insisted that the money he distributes does not come from public funds but from his own personal income.
He explained that the funds are drawn from his parliamentary salary, his private business ventures, and support from friends who believe in his work and leadership.
“They are angry, but the money is not theirs. This money belongs to you, the people who elected me to represent you,” he told the crowd, defending his actions.
The MP also dismissed claims that his actions are secretive or hidden. He revealed that even before he was elected, he had made a public promise regarding how he would use his salary.
According to him, he had clearly stated that half of his earnings would go toward supporting his family, while the other half would be directed back to the people of Nyaribari Chache.
“Before I became your MP, I made it clear that half of my salary would support my family and myself, while the remaining half would go to the people,” he reiterated.
This declaration has shifted the public conversation, with many now questioning whether the move is purely an act of generosity or a calculated political strategy.
Critics argue that such handouts could influence voter behavior and create dependency, especially as the country slowly approaches the 2027 general elections.
Several civil society organisations have expressed concern that the practice may undermine the dignity of citizens and weaken democratic values.
They warn that distributing money in this manner could be interpreted as early voter inducement, even if it is framed as personal support.
However, Jhanda rejected claims that he has already started campaigning for re-election. He clarified that his official campaign for the 2027 elections has not yet begun and is scheduled to be launched on May 1, 2027.
According to him, his current actions should not be viewed through a political lens but rather as part of his ongoing commitment to serve and uplift his constituents.
As the debate continues, Jhanda’s approach has opened a wider discussion across the country about the role of money in politics, the line between generosity and influence, and the expectations citizens have from their elected leaders.
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