Kioko's sister, who's battling a serious illness, was flown to India for treatment, adding to the family's financial woes. Despite numerous attempts to engage with county officials, Kioko says he's been met with "deafening silence" and even intimidation.
The dispute has sparked widespread outrage, with many Kenyans calling for transparency in county procurement processes. Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has offered to help Kioko pursue the payment.
Machakos County has denied any wrongdoing, claiming Kioko isn't a registered supplier and didn't fulfill contractual obligations.