In the heart of Machakos County, a fresh political wind is blowing, and it carries the name Hon. Alina Matheka, popularly known as Kana Bodah. The vibrant, people-focused leader is rapidly emerging as a formidable contender for the Matungulu parliamentary seat in the upcoming 2027 general elections, setting the stage for what many predict will be one of the most-watched political battles in Ukambani.
For years, Matungulu Constituency has been under the leadership of Hon. Stephen Mutinda Mule, also known as Mwana Mule — a long-serving MP whose tenure has been marked by both achievements and growing criticism. Yet, as residents express frustration over stalled projects, poor infrastructure, and unfulfilled promises, there’s a growing sense that change is overdue.
Nowhere is that desire for transformation stronger than in the Matungulu region, especially among the Kyanzavi people — a majority and well-known community that has been vocal about their support for Alina Matheka. To them, her victory represents not just political change, but the very future and hope of Matungulu itself.
“Matungulu is well known for poor infrastructure,” says a local elder from Kyanzavi.
“We have suffered long enough; we are the only constituency with just one complete tarmac road, Kangundo Road. Our villages are still impassable during rains, our farmers struggle to transport produce, and our youth are migrating to towns for lack of opportunity.”
Alina Matheka “Kana Bodah”
It’s this frustration — mixed with hope — that fuels the community’s unwavering belief in Hon. Alina Matheka. Across market centers, boda boda stages, and women’s groups, one sentiment echoes repeatedly:
“Alina ni we wikwatyo witu, mwa ni Ngai, kan kaa niko twilwetye yu,”
(Alina is our true hope, she is God-sent, the one we’ve been waiting for.)
These humbling and heartfelt words, especially from the women and elderly of Matungulu, reflect a powerful truth — the people are ready for total change. For many, Alina Matheka symbolizes a leader who listens, understands their daily struggles, and is willing to walk with them on the path toward progress.
Enter Kana Bodah, a leader deeply rooted in the community and widely celebrated for her grassroots connection. Her rise from local activism to political prominence has captured the hearts of many, especially the boda boda riders, market traders, youth, and women’s groups, who see her not as a distant politician but as one of their own.
“Alina listens. She walks with the people, not above them,” says Peter Musyoka, a boda boda rider from Tala town. “For the first time, we feel like someone understands our struggles.”
Her campaign slogan, “Power to the People,” resonates strongly across Matungulu’s towns and villages. Her agenda centers on education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and infrastructure development — four pillars she believes will unlock the region’s full potential.
In an exclusive interview, Alina Matheka emphasized her vision for Matungulu’s renewal:
“We cannot keep waiting for promises that never come. Our youth need jobs, our schools need support, and our mothers deserve better healthcare. It’s time for a new chapter in Matungulu.”
Her entry into the race is also being buoyed by the rising influence of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) in Ukambani — a region traditionally seen as an opposition stronghold. Political observers note that Alina’s alignment with UDA’s grassroots mobilization strategies could give her a competitive edge, especially among the growing population of young voters who crave tangible change over rhetoric.
Moreover, her candidacy symbolizes more than just a political bid — it represents the rising wave of women’s leadership sweeping across Kenya. As more women break barriers in governance and public service, Kana Bodah’s bold move could inspire many more to step into leadership roles at both local and national levels.
Community groups and local organizations are already rallying behind her, citing her track record of community service, charity involvement, and hands-on approach to problem-solving. In places like Koma, Kangundo Road, and Kyeleni, murals and posters bearing her image have begun appearing — a clear sign that her message of empowerment and inclusivity is resonating deeply.
As the countdown to 2027 continues, one thing is becoming increasingly clear — Matungulu’s political landscape is changing. Whether Hon. Alina Matheka will manage to unseat the seasoned Mwana Mule remains to be seen, but one undeniable fact stands: her campaign has awakened a new sense of hope among the people.
For many residents, the 2027 election won’t just be about choosing a leader; it will be about choosing the future they want — one rooted in action, inclusion, and progress.
The people of Kyanzavi, and indeed all of Matungulu, are standing at the crossroads of history — and their hearts seem to have chosen their direction: toward hope, toward unity, and toward Alina Matheka.
