This archive report was first published on 17 October 2019.
Former Taita Taveta Woman Representative Joyce Wanjala Jay has spoken out about her financial struggles after losing her seat in the 2017 elections.
According to her tweets, Jay had to sell her only vehicle, which she had owned since 2013, to pay off debts she had accumulated while supporting empowerment projects and paying school fees.
She claimed that politicians are often forced into debt to meet the financial demands of their constituents, and that those who fail to provide handouts are mocked.
Jay also revealed that she had taken a mortgage, which was due to be paid within four years, but had to 'tighten her belt' after losing her seat.
She wrote, 'On the ground, you still have to stay
