From grace to grass: How Caleb Amaswache went from Vihiga Deputy Governor to firewood vendor

Former Vihiga County Deputy Governor Caleb Amaswache, who served under ex-county boss Moses Akaranga, is now hawking firewood in Luanda town to earn a living and pay his bills.

Citizen TV caught up with him in Luanda doing his usual business of supplying firewood to various hotels.

He pointed out how life has not been a walk in the park after leaving office, a situation he described as undeserving after serving as a deputy governor.

He added that he could not afford to pay for his bills, including catering for his children's education.

"I need a job. I'm asking His Excellency William Ruto to consider those who were in government at one given time. We are all Kenyans and the President should take care of all of us," he remarked.

"I don't have enough capital. I have a daughter who's going to school and I need Ksh.200,000 for a start."

All he is left with are portraits of him and senior government officials who mingled with him during his heyday.

This reflects what he went through both during his time in power and after losing it.

Amaswache pointed out that his past attempts to apply for jobs were in vain, citing that his application was not shortlisted in the ongoing Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Commissioner interviews.

He cautioned current leaders to respect others, highlighting that power is transient. 

"My advice to those in power is to respect and protect those who previously served in office. Today you could be in office, tomorrow you could not," he added. 

"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."