By TWV Team
A calculated attempt by Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti to impeach Machakos County Assembly Speaker Anne Kiusya has failed, revealing deep divisions within the Wiper Party and altering the political landscape in Machakos. The impeachment motion, driven by Wiper’s majority in the 60-member County Assembly, aimed to remove Kiusya but fell short of the required two-thirds majority, securing only thirty-three votes despite efforts to sway undecided Wiper members.
Kiusya, once elected with Wiper’s support, outmanoeuvred her opponents by forging an alliance with President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and a coalition of United Democratic Alliance (UDA), Maendeleo Chap Chap, independent, and even some Wiper MCAs. This unexpected support not only saved her position but strengthened her influence, casting her as a pragmatic leader rather than the “UDA mole” Kalonzo had labelled her during a rally at Mulu Mutisya Gardens in March 2025.
The failed impeachment, marred by procedural flaws, has been described as politically motivated, with MCAs claiming it was an attempt to curb Kiusya’s oversight of the county executive. The backlash has weakened Kalonzo’s regional control and Wavinya’s sway in the Assembly while highlighting the growing influence of smaller parties like Maendeleo Chap Chap. Accusations of UDA interference have surfaced, prompting a Senate Committee on Devolution, chaired by Senator Catherine Mumma, to intervene and order a special session to resume county operations.
The fallout signals a potential realignment of loyalties in Machakos, with Kiusya emerging as a symbol of institutional independence. As the 2027 elections loom, the Wiper Party faces the challenge of mending internal rifts, while Kalonzo’s misstep has been dubbed a bold but ineffective move, raising questions about his political grip ahead of future contests.
