Governor Mutula Refutes Claims of Abandoning Wiper for UDA

Governor Mutula Kilonzo Junior of Makueni County has firmly refuted claims that he intends to leave the Wiper Party and join the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

Speaking in Kibwezi East, Kilonzo addressed the swirling rumours head-on, reaffirming his loyalty to Wiper and its leader Kalonzo Musyoka. The controversy erupted when allegations surfaced that certain individuals had informed Musyoka of Kilonzo's supposed plans to defect to UDA. In response, the governor emphatically denies these claims, using colourful language to distance himself from UDA's campaign symbol, stating he has no intention of "pushing a wheelbarrow."

He acknowledges internal tensions within Wiper's county leadership as exemplified by a recent incident where Makueni County Speaker Douglas Mbilu had to temporarily suspend House proceedings due to leadership disputes. Kilonzo assures residents of his continued alignment with the party. The governor questions campaign activities at a time when the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) lacks functioning commissioners to oversee elections.

Kilonzo, serving his first term as governor, expresses confidence in his political future. He reminds his critics of the hard-fought campaign that secured his position and declared himself undeterred by any threats. Looking ahead to 2027, Kilonzo has vowed to quietly retire to his ancestral home in Mboni should he be voted out. In the August elections, Kilonzo emerged victorious on the Wiper Party ticket, securing 214,088 votes and significantly outpacing his nearest rival, Dr Patrick Musimba who received 63,252 votes.

This victory was subsequently upheld by the court, which dismissed a petition challenging the results. However, Kilonzo's tenure has not been without challenges. Recent efforts to reconcile with aggrieved Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) during a retreat in Mombasa met with resistance, as some MCAs walked out in protest over an allowances dispute.