Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire has opened up about the ridicule and political pressure she continues to face for her unwavering support for President William Ruto and the Kenya Kwanza administration, insisting she will not turn her back on the government or allow her county to miss out on development.

Speaking on Sunday, July 6 during a church service at the ACK Diocese of Embu, which President Ruto also attended, Mbarire recounted how her loyalty to the government has attracted insults, mockery, and even demands to defect.

“I’ve faced a lot of ridicule. Some say I’ve done nothing. Others mock my appearance even my dress sense,” she said. “There are people who now call me ‘Karinda’ because of the dresses I wear while attending public functions to showcase government achievements.”

She explained that the nickname comes from her habit of wearing short dresses as she moves around the county monitoring government projects.

In one instance, she said critics claimed one of her dresses had torn, to which she responded: “It’s bound to tear I’m constantly on the move working.”

Her candid remarks drew laughter and applause from the congregation. Mbarire said women around her have stood by her, ready to support her through the challenges.

“They told me, ‘If it tears, don’t worry we have thread and a needle ready to fix it so you can keep going,’” she added.

Shifting to the political climate, Mbarire said she had reminded Embu residents that every government deserves its full term before fresh political debates can begin.

“There’s growing political pressure, but I’ve told my people the government was elected for five years. We’ll talk politics when that term is over,” she said.

She warned against repeating mistakes from the past when Embu leaders opted to align with the opposition and missed out on key national projects.

“Five years ago, we were left out because many of our leaders abandoned government. Now, some are telling me to do the same again. I refuse. I will not allow Embu to lose another five years of development,” she declared.

Mbarire’s message reflected the delicate balance she is navigating between defending her political alignment and delivering on her development promises, while enduring public criticism and ridicule that at times turns personal.