WATCH: Sammie Kioko Protests Outside Machakos Offices

Comedian Sammie Kioko and his sister spent a cold and tense night camped outside the Machakos County government offices, demanding payment of KSh 19 million, which they say is owed to them.

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The siblings said they had exhausted all formal channels and felt forced to take their grievance to the public.

According to Kioko, the money relates to contracted work done for the county several years ago. He claimed repeated promises of payment were made but never honoured, leaving his family under financial strain.

“We have followed every procedure, written letters, and attended meetings, but nothing has changed,” Kioko said.

The overnight protest quickly drew attention from passersby and social media users, with images of the siblings seated outside the offices circulating online.

Supporters described the move as desperate but justified, while others questioned why such disputes take years to resolve.

Key issues raised by the siblings include:

Delayed payments for completed county projects
Lack of clear communication from officials
Financial pressure caused by prolonged waiting

Kioko said the situation had taken an emotional toll on his family. He noted that being forced to sleep outside government offices was humiliating but necessary to push authorities to act.

“This is not where we want to be, but we have families to support,” his sister said.

By morning, county officials had not issued a formal statement addressing the claim. Staff members were seen entering the offices as usual, while the siblings remained outside, hoping for engagement from senior administrators.

ALSO READ: Sammie Kioko Steps Back from Machakos County Debt Pursuit, Sick Sister Takes Over

Cases of delayed payments by county governments have previously affected contractors, artists, and service providers across Kenya.

Industry groups have repeatedly warned that prolonged non-payment disrupts livelihoods and undermines trust in public procurement processes.

For Kioko, the protest was about more than money. He said it was a stand against silence and broken promises, adding that he would continue pressing for answers until the matter is resolved.