Speaking during the Machakos Youth Service graduation ceremony, Kalonzo said his political rivals, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, and former Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, were waiting to use the by-election outcome to ridicule his leadership.
“If Wiper loses the Mumbuni North Ward seat, they will say, ‘Kalonzo wants to be president, yet he can’t deliver a ward seat.’ Save me from that shame.
They have set a trap help me jump it,” Kalonzo appealed to the crowd.
The by-election, scheduled later this month, was triggered by the 2023 death of Gideon Kavuu, who was elected on a Maendeleo Chap Chap Party ticket.
The contest has attracted intense competition, with Wiper’s Anthony Kisoi facing UDA’s Misi Mutua and Maendeleo Chap Chap’s Harrison Wambua.
Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti and Senator Agnes Kavindu have rallied locals to support Kisoi, describing the by-election as a defining moment for Ukambani politics.
“A win for Wiper will send a strong message that Kalonzo commands respect both in Ukambani and nationally,” said Senator Kavindu.
The campaigns have exposed cracks among President William Ruto’s allies in the region, as UDA and Maendeleo Chap Chap field separate candidates despite being in the same Kenya Kwanza coalition.
Political observers say the outcome will be a litmus test for Kalonzo’s influence and a preview of the 2027 political realignments.
