Political Tensions Escalate in Ukambani as Kalonzo Rejects Government Overtures

By Emmanuel Kyengo

Political temperatures in Ukambani are rising as leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The eastern region — comprising Machakos, Makueni, and Kitui counties — remains a stronghold of Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, despite growing tensions among Kamba leaders and the active involvement of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Gachagua has recently sparked political debate in the region after declaring himself the “official communicator” in any talks involving Kalonzo. Speaking during a series of visits to Masii, Wamunyu, Kwa Vonza, and Kabati, Gachagua remarked:

“Ruto ridiculed Kalonzo, saying he is a mere dengu farmer. I want to tell him to leave Kalonzo alone. He is not available for you.”

He added:

“We have come here as a family of cousins. I am the spokesman of this family. Whoever wants to talk to Kalonzo must go through me.”

The remarks underscored Gachagua’s attempt to position himself as an intermediary rather than a recruiter for the Kenya Kwanza administration.

In response, Kalonzo reaffirmed his allegiance to the opposition, dismissing any possibility of joining what he termed a “blood-based government,” in reference to the Kenya Kwanza regime’s political and familial associations.

Kalonzo also condemned the government’s handling of recent anti-government protests, saying:

“The nation owes the public an apology for the deaths witnessed during the Gen Z protests.”

His sentiments were echoed by Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti, who revealed that she had been approached by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki to help persuade Kalonzo to join the government.

“Kalonzo declined the offer, saying, ‘No, thank you. I can’t join your blood-based government,’” Ndeti stated.

Governor Ndeti, a loyal Wiper member, has maintained her support for Kalonzo’s presidential ambitions, urging opposition leaders to rally behind him ahead of the 2027 polls.

Both Kalonzo and Gachagua have been touring various towns in Ukambani — including Masii, Wamunyu, Kwa Vonza, Kabati, and Kitui Central — engaging residents on development and governance concerns.

Among key issues raised are the stalled Kitui–Kibwezi–Mbondoni Road project, unreliable electricity supply, and poor public service delivery. Kalonzo urged residents to remain politically active and participate in civic matters.

“The real revolution begins at the ballot,” he said.

Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi also decried the delayed road works, saying:

“The attempt to delay completion of the Kibwezi–Kitui–Mbondoni road has denied Kitui Town its potential to grow and prosper economically. These politics of neglect and exclusion must end.”

Despite Kalonzo’s continued dominance in Ukambani, subtle political shifts are emerging as some MPs, MCAs, and youth leaders reevaluate their alliances.

Within Wiper itself, growing internal rivalry is evident as Kitui Governor Julius Malombe, Senator Enock Kiio, and Woman Representative Irene Kasalu — all from the party — eye the 2027 governorship, splitting local support.

While Kalonzo may need to intervene to unify his party, Gachagua has suggested that such divisions could open space for new leadership in the region.

Elsewhere, Narc Kenya leader Martha Karua, under the United Opposition banner, joined in criticizing the government, saying:

“Thousands of Kenyans have united in one voice, demanding change. It is clear the regime has failed its people.”

She added:

“Out of that failure, hope is rising. Through the United Opposition, we are charting a new path that restores integrity, rebuilds institutions, and delivers a government that truly works for the people.”