"Snake park": Alfred Mutua, Wavinya clash over state of Machakos People's Park

This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.

- Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua shared a lamenting the deteriorating condition of Machakos People's Park, which once hosted major events

- The park previously drew top artists including Sauti Sol, Ali Kiba and Rayvanny before falling into what Mutua described as a deplorable state

- Governor Wavinya Ndeti fired back, accusing Mutua of political propaganda and defending her administration's management of the facility

Cabinet Secretary for Labour and Social Protection Alfred Mutua has gone public with a sharp attack on Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti, using a video post to flag what he says is the shocking decline of the once-celebrated Machakos People's Park.

In the clip shared on Wednesday, 19 August, Mutua painted a grim picture of the facility, calling it a shadow of what it used to be during his tenure as governor.

Is Machakos People's Park neglected?

The park was a major draw during his time in office, hosting big-name concerts featuring artists like Sauti Sol, Ali Kiba and Rayvanny, and attracting crowds from across the country. Mutua's blunt summary of its current state was captured in a single phrase: "Snake Park."

Governor Wavinya Ndeti did not let the criticism pass without a response. In a statement, she dismissed Mutua's video as political theatre, suggesting his move was timed to his uncertain standing within the UDA political circle.

"It is quite laughable to watch former Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua, now a Cabinet Secretary, attempt to resurrect his long-dormant 'Cobra Squad' filming career apparently at a time when his political fortunes within UDA appear increasingly uncertain," Wavinya said.

She went on to defend her administration's record, arguing that four years in office had produced visible results across key sectors in Machakos County.

On the People's Park specifically, Wavinya maintained that the venue remains active and well-maintained, pointing to the annual Vuka Festival and other events as evidence that the facility continues to support traders, suppliers and creatives.

"The required maintenance and upkeep at the People's Park have always been undertaken to ensure the facility remains in good condition and continues serving the people of Machakos," she said, urging politicians to "not mislead the public with falsehoods, malice, and political propaganda."

The video clearly struck a nerve online, with many who remembered the park in its heyday sharing their reactions.

Oloibon Masai YA Mwala commented:

"We used to frequently visit from Nairobi. We no longer do."

Kioko M Francis wrote:

"It was a paradise indeed during your time."

Helen Koki added:

"It was so beautiful; we once held an IP program there some years back."

Sirme Muinde Jr. kept it brief:

"Ni Snake Park. I agree."

The back-and-forth between the two leaders has reignited debate about the management of public facilities in Machakos County and what devolution has delivered for residents over the years.

Source: TUKO.co.ke

Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.