[MCCP leader Dr. Afred Mutua (Right) and Wiper Democratic Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka. Two are in a struggle for the Kamba region's leadership. Photo|gafla.com]
Maendeleo Chap Chap Party leadership has told Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka to shelve his 2022 presidential bid and instead back Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua's candidature. Addressing journalists in Kitui town on Sunday, MCCP’s Secretary General, Stephen Kilonzo said it was high time the former Vice President hang his boots and pave way for younger and energetic politicians from his political backyard, Ukambani. Governor Mutua, who parted ways with Kalonzo after ditching Wiper Party to form MCCP ahead of last year’s national polls, has since declared his bid for Kenya’s top leadership come 2022. “I personally respect Kalonzo and appreciate the much he has done for this nation as a leader but his time is certainly up. He should honorably hand over the mantle to his political mentee and kinsman Alfred Mutua,” Kilonzo said. Kilonzo said the Kamba community had rallied behind Kalonzo’s presidential bids for three times but to no avail adding that a fourth trial seemingly won’t be any different. He noted that Mutua’s leadership had been tested and proved as Machakos County boss besides his zeal to spearhead sustainable socio-economic development in the country. “Unlike Kalonzo, Dr. Mutua has won the support and confidence of many Kenyans even as he braces for the 2022 presidential contest," Kilonzo said.