The battle for political supremacy between Wiper Party leader Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka and Maendeleo Chap Chap Movement’s Dr Alfred Mutua has been reignited ahead of the Mutonguni Ward by-election in Kitui County. Wiper is now facing the threat of losing the seat to Mutua’s political outfit after the campaigns were officially closed on Monday.
The candidates of the two leaders engaged in a fierce exchange of words during the campaigns. Political analysts argue that the contest is a two horse-race pitting Stephen Kithuka of Wiper party against Mr Musee Mati of Maendeleo Chap Chap.
It is believed that both candidates have the same political muscles to win the contest. Their party leaders have employed a wide range of campaign tactics including door-to-door campaigns to ensure they carry the day.
Last weekend, Musyoka pitched tents in different parts of the ward with Wiper MPs to woo voters to back their candidate in the by-election. He appealed to voters from the region not to embarrass him after he fell out with Mutua.
Kalonzo’ team comprised of Wiper party chairman Chirau Mwakwere, Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua, MPs Charles Nguna (Mwingi West), Makali Mulu (Kitui Central), Gideon Mulyungi (Mwingi Central), Edith Nyenze (Kitui West), Rose Museo (Makueni woman rep) and Irene Kasalu (Kitui woman rep). On Monday, Mutua also led a delegation to the ward to campaign for his candidate.
The team comprised of more than 30 businessmen and MCAs from Kitui and Machakos counties. Mwengi Mutuse, Governor Mutua’s chief of staff, asked the residents not to be hoodwinked to back someone without a track record in the mini poll.
“Neither Kalonzo Musyoka nor Governor Mutua is running in this election, so choose a candidate who will serve you better at the county assembly. Do not vote to please a certain politician at the national level,” said Mr Mutuse, as quoted Daily Nation.
Other aspirants in the race are Mr Alex Nzau (Jubilee) and Mailu Mulonzya (independent).