Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka is in the best shape to take on President William Ruto in next year’s presidential election and deserves the support of his Ukambani backyard.
Kitui Governor Julius Malombe on Saturday said Ukambani should remain united behind Kalonzo, saying he is in the best position to make the shot in the 2027 general election.
Kalonzo is among opposition chiefs gunning for the endorsement to take on Ruto in next year’s presidential race.
Malombe said there was no doubt that Kalonzo was well positioned to challenge Ruto; hence, the need for his supporters to remain united behind his candidature.
The governor maintained that the stakes had never been higher for Kalonzo as the opposition seeks to forge a united front to take on Ruto.
“Our very own Kalonzo Musyoka stands the greatest chance of becoming the President of Kenya. It is therefore incumbent upon the people of Ukambani to demonstrate confidence in his leadership by showing him unwavering support,” Malombe said.
He spoke during a social event in Kyoani village in Kitui South subcounty.
Kitui Woman Representative Irene Kasalu, Kitui South MP Rachel Nyamai and former Cabinet Secretary Peninah Malonza and MCA Hussein Mwandia were present.
Kitui South parliamentary aspirant Gladys Kivoto and woman representative aspirant Fridah Makasi also addressed the gathering.
The leaders urged residents to rally behind Kalonzo’s presidential bid citing his roots in Ukambani, and particularly Kitui county.
They warned that it would amount to serious betrayal for local leaders to join rival political formations and campaign for candidates opposed to Kalonzo’s presidential ambitions.
They said Ukambani should remain firmly behind Kalonzo because the region is his political home and should provide the strongest foundation for his campaign.
However, Nyamai, who was re-elected on a Jubilee ticket in 2022, struck a different note, maintaining that democracy gave Kenyans the freedom to support political formations and candidates of their choice.
Nyamai has been campaigning for Ruto’s re-election across Kitui County, where she has led a series of economic empowerment forums in support of the President.
The Kitui South MP said she had no problem with those supporting Kalonzo, arguing that they were exercising their democratic right.
She maintained that Kenyans were equally free to align themselves with political parties and leaders of their choice ahead of the 2027 elections.
