Former Vihiga County Deputy Governor, Caleb Amaswache, has shared a sobering account of life after public office, revealing he now hawks firewood in Luanda town, western Kenya, to survive and meet his family’s basic needs.
Amaswache, who served under former Governor Moses Akaranga, was recently seen by Citizen TV supplying firewood to local hotels — a sharp contrast to his days in office when he enjoyed the privileges of political power.
In a candid interview, Amaswache said life has been difficult since he left public service, disclosing he struggles to pay bills and fund his daughter’s education. He appealed to President William Ruto to consider former public office holders like him in government appointments.
“I need a job. I’m asking His Excellency William Ruto to consider those who were in government at one time. We are all Kenyans and the President should take care of all of us,” he said. “I have a daughter in school and I need Ksh.200,000 to support her education.”
The former deputy governor lamented how friendships and influence vanish with the loss of power.
“When you’re in power, everything looks flashy, everyone respects you. But when you are out of power, that’s when you discover the true reflection of things — people will not pick up your calls because they don’t need you.”
His living space, he added, is now decorated with framed photographs from his time in office — the only remnants of his political past.
Amaswache also revealed that he had sought a position as a commissioner in the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) but was not shortlisted. This, he said, added to his growing frustration with a system that often forgets its former servants.
In a message to current leaders, he urged humility and respect for those who previously held office.
“Power is not permanent. My advice to those in power is to respect and protect those who have served. Today you are in office; tomorrow you might be where I am.”