Kitui East MP Nimrod Mbai has landed himself in a legal and political storm after former Mutito MP Kiema Kilonzo moved to court accusing him of defamation over explosive allegations made at a public rally.
In a sharply worded legal demand dated 19th January 2026, Kiema Kilonzo’s lawyers accuse Mbai of deliberately peddling falsehoods and political propaganda during a public gathering held on 5th January 2026 at Mombasa Market, Juikali, Kitui East. The remarks, delivered in Kiswahili and English, were later amplified on social media turning a political rally into a reputational battlefield.
At the centre of the controversy are claims allegedly made by Mbai linking Kiema Kilonzo to the misappropriation of Chinese funds earmarked for the construction of Blocks A and B at the Mwingi Institute of Technology. The MP allegedly claimed that Chinese contractors were duped, denied payment, had their machinery confiscated, and ultimately abandoned the project an accusation that paints a picture of grand corruption and betrayal of public trust.
Even more damning are allegations that the contractors were allegedly forced to sell their equipment and that coal mining was explored as an alternative form of payment. The statements also reportedly dragged senior political figures into the saga, suggesting a coordinated cover-up claims Kiema Kilonzo insists are outright lies meant to assassinate his character.
Through his legal team, the former Mutito MP has dismissed the claims as reckless, malicious, and politically motivated, accusing Mbai of using populist rhetoric and unverified allegations to score cheap political points. He argues that the statements were not only defamatory but also intended to erode his standing, credibility, and future political prospects.
The demand letter calls for an immediate retraction and unconditional public apology, to be carried in a national newspaper and across all digital platforms where the remarks were circulated, alongside substantial compensation for damages. Failure to comply, the lawyers warn, will trigger a full-blown defamation suit.
The unfolding confrontation underscores the growing tension in Kitui’s political landscape, where political rallies are increasingly turning into trial courts and allegations are made without evidence. As the courts loom, the case serves as a stark warning to politicians who mistake the microphone for immunity words spoken in anger or ambition can carry heavy legal consequences.
Whether Mbai will stand by his claims or retreat under legal pressure remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: this is no longer just a political spat it is a battle for reputation, power, and accountability.