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James Orengo once warned politicians that one day they would face the consequences of the politics they cultivate. His famous observation was: “Sometimes revolutions eat their own children… governments eat their own people.”

For months, Sam Atandi has been seen distributing handouts to groups of young people, often describing them as supporters. Not long ago, he publicly boasted about having plenty of money because of his position within the broad-based government arrangement. Such displays naturally raise public expectations.

This pattern is not unique to Atandi. Several allies of the current administration, including Jalang’o, Didmus Barasa, Junet Mohamed and Kisumu Senator Ojienda, have frequently been associated with public displays of wealth. Millions are showcased at empowerment events, yet many ordinary wananchi walk away with only a few hundred shillings. Money may attract crowds, but it does not necessarily buy lasting loyalty.

Now #Atandi is complaining that youths have been surrounding and hanging onto his vehicle. Reports indicate he has even warned that he could shoot anyone who continues doing so. Such statements are deeply worrying. Violence should never be the answer, regardless of the circumstances.

“This behaviour of youth from my region here is getting out of hand. I was in Nandi for a fundraiser and after disembarking from my chopper, I walked alone to the venue but I never was disturbed by any youth saying I want your money by force. But here in Siaya, there are here they want to see me by force. Take note, if you want to meet me write an appointment. You can’t come in my meeting by force. Once I have left and being driven away in my car, dont hung on my car. I have armed bodyguards who can shoot you and I will be taken nowhere,” Atandi warned.

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The larger lesson is that politicians who normalize handouts as a way of building political support should not be surprised when the same supporters demand more. Expectations created through cash-based politics are difficult to manage once they take root.

As #Orengo cautioned years ago, politics built on short-term rewards can eventually consume those who helped create that system.