Dr. Irene Kasalu received a hero’s welcome from thousands of enthusiastic residents in Kanziko Ward as her ongoing Ziara Mashinani and County Development Tour continued across Kitui South.

Large crowds turned out to receive the gubernatorial aspirant, with supporters saying the overwhelming reception reflected growing confidence in her leadership, development agenda, and vision for a more inclusive and prosperous Kitui County.

Addressing residents, Dr. Kasalu reaffirmed her commitment to people-centred leadership, economic empowerment for women and youth, improved road infrastructure, expanded access to clean water, and initiatives aimed at increasing the purchasing power of ordinary wananchi.

Supporters described the Ziara Mashinani tour as one of the most extensive grassroots engagements in the county, saying it has injected fresh energy into Kitui’s gubernatorial race while shifting public debate toward development, service delivery, and economic transformation.

Campaign supporters further argued that the enthusiastic reception witnessed in Kanziko Ward and across Kitui South reflects growing momentum behind Dr. Kasalu’s gubernatorial bid, while dismissing criticism from political opponents and online detractors as an attempt to divert attention from the issues that matter most to residents.

As the countywide tour continues, Dr. Kasalu says her focus remains on engaging wananchi directly, listening to their concerns, and presenting practical solutions that will improve livelihoods and accelerate development across Kitui County.