Fall After Fame: How ex-powerful County officials, MCAs went from high tables to fighting for Survival

They once dined with governors, shared platforms with Cabinet Secretaries, and signed budgets worth millions. Their names were sung in political rallies, and they moved through town with sirens and escorts.

But today, many of Kenya’s former Members of County Assemblies (MCAs) are a shadow of the power they once held abandoned by privilege, forgotten by friends, and battered by the cost of poor financial choices.
The story is the same in nearly every corner of the country.

In Kisumu, one former MCA now sells secondhand clothes from the back of a tuk-tuk. In Bungoma, another delivers building stones for a living.

And in Vihiga County, a former Deputy Governor, Caleb Amaswache, once surrounded by government protocol, now sells firewood at the roadside to raise school fees for his daughter.

“People used to stand when I entered the room,” Amaswache says softly. “Now, I can spend the whole day here without a single customer.”

Most of these leaders assumed power in 2013 or 2017 the first wave of county governments following devolution. Their salaries were generous, allowances substantial, and influence unmatched. For many, it was the first taste of real money.

But without training in financial management or the humility to seek professional advice, the money was spent as quickly as it came.

From luxurious cars and designer clothes to lavish weekend getaways and unsustainable handouts, the choices made during their time in office were often shaped more by ego than foresight.

“I regret not investing when I had the chance,” admits a former MCA from Uasin Gishu. “At the time, I thought the good life would never end.”

But the end came abruptly. Once out of office, the phone calls stopped. Invitations disappeared. With no pension and few viable business plans, many former MCAs found themselves battling debt, depression, and disgrace.

A number have been auctioned. Some have sunk into alcoholism. Others are quietly surviving on the goodwill of friends and relatives a painful contrast to the image they once projected.

“One of the biggest lies in local politics is that money will always come,” says financial coach Hellen Murugi. “MCAs, in particular, are at high risk they earn well, spend big, and forget to plan for the day the title Mheshimiwa no longer opens doors.”

In Nairobi’s Umoja estate, a former MCA now works as a part-time Uber driver. He says his biggest loss wasn’t the seat but the respect of his own children, who watched the family go from abundance to lack in a matter of months.

“It’s not easy to explain to your kids why you had three cars and now can’t pay rent,” he says. “I should have known better.”

Today, as newly elected MCAs settle into office across Kenya, stories like these offer a sobering lesson: power fades, but financial decisions live on.

A few former leaders have managed to reinvent themselves starting small businesses, returning to private practice, or offering consultancy services. But for the majority, the fall from public admiration to personal despair has been both steep and silent.

Back in Luanda, Amaswache reflects on his journey without bitterness. “Maybe my story will save someone else,” he says, stacking firewood in the afternoon sun. “The seat gives you attention but it doesn’t give you a future. Only discipline does.”

County Pension Schemes for MCAs: Is There a Safety Net?

As it stands, Members of County Assemblies across Kenya do not have a standardized, fully operational pension scheme like Members of Parliament.

Some counties have proposed or initiated schemes such as the Retirement Benefits (County Assembly Members) Bill, introduced in past Senate sessions but its implementation has been patchy, underfunded, or caught in legal and political gridlock.

The Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) has often cited the transient nature of MCA service and legal limitations in expanding pension obligations beyond the current law.

However, these gaps leave many leaders vulnerable after their terms end, especially those who served only one term and failed to secure re-election.

The Urgent Need for Financial Literacy Training for Elected Leaders

The reality is harsh: a significant number of former MCAs are languishing in poverty due to reckless spending, lack of savings culture, and poor investment decisions during their time in office.

From flashy convoys to lavish lifestyles, many lived far beyond their means. The absence of structured financial training is glaring.

Counties in partnership with the Council of Governors, EACC, and institutions like the Retirement Benefits Authority (RBA) must consider mandatory financial literacy training for elected leaders.

Such programs should be embedded during induction and refresher courses throughout their term, covering

Personal budgeting and investment, Retirement planning,Legal obligations and asset declaration, Ethical leadership and wealth accountability Holding Leaders Accountable Beyond Public Duty to Personal Responsibility.

Kenyans are increasingly demanding transparency in public service.

But the conversation must evolve to include personal responsibility. Why should taxpayers fund medical appeals or welfare calls for former leaders who misused their wealth and opportunities?
Accountability mechanisms must expand to

Track lifestyle audits beyond office tenure, Promote asset declaration transparency, not only for public trust but personal discipline Incentivize integrity through awards, public recognition, and publication of financially disciplined leaders.

Kenya’s devolution dream risks being undermined if leaders continue to fall from power into poverty due to poor financial decisions.

Establishing solid pension systems and integrating financial literacy training into leadership development is not just beneficial it is imperative.

And for citizens, the time has come to demand accountability that spans both public office and private conduct.