Wiper Party leaders have launched a strong attack against President William Ruto, accusing him of disrespecting the Kamba community and sidelining their political influence.
Speaking during the unveiling of Anthony Kisoi as the Wiper candidate for the upcoming Mumbuni North ward by-election, Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti said the Kamba community, and particularly Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, have faced ridicule for too long.
“Kalonzo should be accorded respect. Some people take his calmness and diplomacy for granted, mistaking it for weakness. We are tired of being looked down upon,” said Wavinya, declaring that the community is now ready to engage in political battle.
Former Machakos Town MP Victor Munyaka echoed her sentiments, accusing President Ruto of misleading the people of Ukambani with “empty promises.” He claimed that since taking office, the president has not conducted a single development-focused visit to the region.
Munyaka also criticised Ruto’s remarks during the Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kitui, where he used the phrase “vomwe na vetwe.” According to Munyaka, the statement was an insult to the Akamba people. “You can’t say Kambas are people of ‘vomwe and vetwe’. The phrase means ‘one-term’. We are a people who fear God and don’t steal from Kenyans,” he said.
The leaders accused the Kenya Kwanza government of perpetuating corruption and discrimination, arguing that a Kalonzo presidency would restore integrity in governance.
Meanwhile, Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa dismissed the criticism, terming it a diversion meant to distract from President Ruto’s recent signing of contentious laws on cybercrime and privatisation.
The Mumbuni North by-election, set for November 27, has now taken on symbolic significance, with Wiper leaders calling it a litmus test for Kalonzo’s 2027 presidential bid, urging residents to rally behind Kisoi as a show of unity and support.
