That Crispus Ileli, popularly known as Mwene Mavati is the leading contender for Kitui Central parliamentary seat is not in doubt.
Ileli’s candidacy, as expected as it was, has caused sweeping excitement and sensation among Kitui Central voters and even beyond.
But the big question is; how did the youthful young man pull such a feat and endear himself to the people with such a glamour?
Ileli’s journey in public service started in Makueni County where he worked under governor Kivutha Kibwana. During his time there, Ileli left a mark in public service that is unparalleled even today.
As the man in charge of Makueni County Sand Authority, a semi autonomous body, Ileli plunged deep into the assignment of crushing sand harvesting cartels that had reduced local rivers into their playground with uncontrolled sand harvesting. The menace had led to wanton destruction of rivers and their ecosystems.
A meticulous planner and executioner, Ileli who boasts of a Masters degree and first degree in social sciences crafted a strategy that stopped the cartels in their tracks. However it was not easy. Countless times, his life was put on the line as the vicious cartels bayed for his blood. A resilient man, buoyed by his service to humanity, Ileli soldiered on and in a matter of months, sobriety returned as cartels fled the scene.
Ileli became a household name, loved by many for saving the rivers, the environment, and boosting the county revenue through controlled and well organized harvesting of sand.
It was unbelievable how he proffered a workable solution to a decades old menace, almost like a man with a magic wand.
Due to his stellar performance, former Kitui governor Charity Ngilu set her eyes on the man and courted him to join her government. Soon Ngilu appointed Ileli as the Chief of Staff, again thrusting Mwene Mavati into yet another top level of public service. Ileli did not disappoint, his easy going demeanour made him connect easily with the county residents as he executed his duties with fervent passion.
Owing to his exposure to public service, many are of the opinion that Ileli towers shoulder above the rest when it comes to serving the public.
“Ileli understands the needs of the Kamba community very well having worked in Makueni and Kitui. His passion and commitment to public service is unparalleled” says Dickson Mwinzi, a political observer.
Many are of the opinion that even outside Kitui Central politics, Ileli’s grounding gives him an advantage to serve the country even at national level.
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