Wiper Democratic Movement party leader H.E. Kalonzo Musyoka is reportedly shifting his political focus to Kitui West Constituency ahead of the 2027 general elections, signaling a potential realignment within the party’s Ukambani stronghold.
According to well-placed party insiders and political analysts, the move comes in response to what has been described as a significant betrayal of Wiper’s ideals and poor grassroots performance by key leaders in the region. Despite Kitui West being home to two senior Wiper figures, Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua and his sister, current MP Edith Nyenze, the party failed to secure a single Member of County Assembly (MCA) seat in the constituency during the 2022 elections.
This outcome sharply contrasted with Wiper’s performance in other parts of Kitui County, where it clinched several ward-level seats and cemented its grassroots influence. The total absence of Wiper-affiliated MCAs in Kitui West has since triggered alarm within the party’s top ranks.
“There’s a strong feeling within Wiper that the leadership in Kitui West failed to mobilize effectively for the party, despite holding influential positions,” a senior party strategist told The County Daily Digital on condition of anonymity.
Kalonzo, a key player in national politics and a potential presidential contender in 2027, is said to be deeply dissatisfied with what is being seen as a lack of commitment from the area’s elected leaders. In an effort to reclaim lost ground, party insiders hint that he may deny Hon. Edith Nyenze the Wiper ticket in the next election, instead backing a candidate seen as more loyal and better positioned to advance the party’s agenda.
Among the names being floated is Fredrick “Generali” Kimanga, a seasoned administrator and longtime Kalonzo ally with a strong record of grassroots mobilization. Kimanga is believed to enjoy the trust of the Wiper boss and has been instrumental in various behind-the-scenes political operations over the years.
“Generali Kimanga understands the political terrain and has the ground network needed to revamp the party’s presence,” said another party official familiar with the deliberations.
The developments come amid an ongoing internal review within the Wiper Party, which aims to consolidate its grip on the Ukambani region as the 2027 electoral season nears. Political observers believe Kitui West could become a battleground as rival camps jostle for influence and the party seeks to reassert its dominance.
As the situation unfolds, the constituency is expected to witness heightened political activity, with Kalonzo’s moves closely watched as a barometer of Wiper’s broader strategy across the region.
Written By Rodney Mbua
