Former Machakos Senator Johnstone Muthama has dismissed claims that he does not respect ex-Kathiani MP Wavinya Ndeti.Muthama said he has much respect for Ndeti contrary to reports by a section of the media.The former Machakos senator said he has never disrespected Ndeti.“I have much respect for Wavinya Ndeti and I am ready to trim her as the next Machakos governor,” Muthama said.
He spoke at a burial ceremony in Matungulu, Machakos County on Saturday.
Muthama said he only differs with Ndeti on some political issues.He hailed Ndeti’s push for electoral justice.“I like how Wavinya Ndeti is pushing for justice and her quest to ensure that Machakos people have better leadership,” Muthama said.Muthama, however, maintained that he has issues with Ndeti's former gubernatorial running mate, Peter Mathuki.He said Mathuki is not fit to be Ndeti’s running mate.“I will say it without fear that Mathuki is a political 'conman' who should not be Ndeti’s running mate,” he said.Muthama said he will support Governor Alfred Mutua if Mathuki remains Ndeti’s running mate in case of a gubernatorial by-election in Machakos.Muthama and Ndeti are said to have fallen out in 2017 after Wiper Party endorsed her gubernatorial bid.The former senator is said to have pleaded with Wiper to endorse former Machakos Deputy Governor Bernard Kiala and not Wavinya Ndeti.
Kiala unsuccessfully contested for the Machakos gubernatorial seat in the August 8, 2017, general election.
Wavinya Ndeti has equally rubbished claims that she is not in good political terms with Muthama.
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