By TWV Political Desk
Wiper Democratic Movement party leader Kalonzo Musyoka finds himself in a political quandary at home in Ukambani as the race for the Kitui gubernatorial seat approaches. Mr Musyoka is caught between rewarding steadfast loyalty within his party and promoting his son, Kennedy Musyoka, as a preferred candidate for governor in 2027. How he balances this delicate political act could shape his influence within and beyond the Ukambani region.
Kennedy Musyoka is currently serving his second term at the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA). Kalonzo reportedly views his son as ready to assume the role, citing his experience and political exposure. However, fielding Kennedy could spark accusations of nepotism, potentially alienating key allies within the Wiper party.
With incumbent Governor Julius Malombe set to complete his final term by 2027, the Kitui gubernatorial seat will be open to new contenders. This has ignited fierce competition both within and outside Wiper, as aspirants vie for the coveted position in a county pivotal to Kalonzo’s regional dominance.
Within Wiper, two prominent figures have emerged as potential candidates: Kitui Senator Enoch Kiio Wambua and Kitui Central MP Dr Makali Mulu. Political analysts suggest that apart from his son, Kennedy, Mr Kalonzo Musyoka favours Mulu, who has been vocal about his gubernatorial ambitions. However, Wambua’s unwavering loyalty to Kalonzo makes him a strong alternative, just in case Kennedy does not enter the race. The decision on whom to endorse will test Kalonzo’s ability to manage internal party dynamics while maintaining family unity.
Adding complexity to the race is the return of former Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu, who is preparing to reclaim the seat she held from 2013 to 2017. Ngilu, a political heavyweight, opted not to defend her seat in 2022, anticipating a ministerial role in the Azimio la Umoja coalition government that never materialised. Her re-entry enjoys significant community support, but her long-standing rivalry with Kalonzo makes it unlikely that they will align politically. This tension could fragment the vote in Kitui, complicating Wiper’s strategy.
The rivalry between Kalonzo and Ngilu has historical roots. In 2022, Kalonzo and Azimio leader Raila Odinga agreed to sideline Ngilu, paving the way for Malombe to run unopposed on a Wiper ticket. Kalonzo’s insistence that all three Ukambani gubernatorial seats, Kitui, Machakos, and Makueni, be reserved for Wiper underscored his ambition to consolidate power in the region. Ngilu’s comeback threatens to upend this arrangement, forcing Kalonzo to navigate a delicate political landscape.
Further intensifying the competition is former Cabinet Secretary Peninah Malonza, who has also declared her interest in the governorship. Malonza’s candidacy introduces an additional layer of uncertainty, particularly for veteran politicians like Ngilu and Wiper’s internal contenders. Her political clout and recent high-profile role could make her a formidable player in the race.
As Kalonzo prepares for a presidential run in 2027, the Kitui gubernatorial race carries significant weight. A strong Wiper performance in Ukambani is crucial to bolstering his national credibility. His handling of the Kitui succession will be closely scrutinised, as it reflects his ability to manage competing interests within his party while countering external challenges from rivals such as Ngilu.
The 2027 Kitui gubernatorial race is shaping up to be a high-stakes contest, with Kalonzo at a crossroads. Will he back his son, reward loyalty, or seek a compromise to maintain Wiper’s grip on the county? The decision will not only determine Kitui’s next governor but also signal Kalonzo’s political dexterity as he eyes the presidency. As the race unfolds, all eyes will be on how he navigates this intricate political chessboard.
