Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka pleads with locals not to embarrass him in by-election

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka yesterday led Ukambani leaders in drumming up support for the party’s Masongaleni Ward by-election candidate, Col (Rtd) Philip Mumo. Kalonzo was accompanied by Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana, Senators Johnstone Muthama, Peter Orengo and Mutula Kilonzo Junior and other party leaders.

Kalonzo expressed confidence that the CORD’s candidate would win the by-election and urged the voters to turn up in large numbers on Friday cast their vote. Addressing a rally at Ulilinzi Market Centre in Masongaleni, the former Vice President said the by-election would be a litmus test for him.

“This vote is crucial for me in the countdown to 2017 General Election. Please don’t a embarrass me by voting for other candidate other than Wiper’s,” Kalonzo pleaded. Prof Kibwana echoed Kalonzo’s sentiments saying the by-election had larger political ramifications.

“It is a test of the people’s support for Kalonzo and a loss would put the Kamba kingpin in an awkward position. A defeat would also dwindle his bargaining power for the CORD presidential ticket against Raila Odinga and Moses Wetang'ula,” Kibwana said.

The Governor said he chose to support the Wiper candidate and denounce his Muungano Party’s candidate to avoid gifting the ‘enemy’ a win.

Meanwhile, the Independent Party’s Florence Kilonzo and Jubilee by extension, is giving the Wiper candidate a run for his money. Tip leader Kalembe Ndile is leading Wiper’s onslaught and has termed Kalonzo and his Wiper Party as offering nothing new to the Kamba people. However, Kibwana rubbished Kalembe’s sentiments and said Kalonzo was the best candidate for the country’s top job. Makueni County Women Representative, Rose Museo, warned Masongaleni residents against trusting unscrupulous politicians out to make money by mortgaging their lives.

“This is a campaign between CORD and Jubilee. Some people you see shouting loudest about Jubilee have pocketed huge chunks of money with a promise to deliver your votes to them. Shame on them,” Museo said.

Col Mumo said he was prepared to work tirelessly to deliver services.