Governor Charity Ngilu By Kivutha Kibwana
It is clear Wiper was never in Azimio. Evidently, it has no intention of joining Azimio. Indeed it is methodically undermining Azimio. Up to now the party has never campaigned for Raila in Ukambani. Only the three governors did so and raised Raila's popularity in the region up to about 65%. Historically the people of Makueni in 2013 and 2017 gave more support to Raila than those of Kitui and Machakos. In 2017, Jubilee made inroads in the two latter counties.
Today ( 8/5/2022) Wiper used a religious crusade to campaign for Kalonzo's deputy presidency. Curiously the presiding clergy turned himself into a politico. The Christians who had come for prayer had to watch from the Unoa field perimeter fence. Where on earth does a potential running mate blackmail a presidential candidate so as to be made a deputy by attacks, abuse, vitriol, confrontation, guile etc. In which democracy? Such strategy is deployed where one knows they may not qualify but wants to build sympathy among a section of the electorate. Wiper wants to shore up its dwindling fortunes by inciting the Kamba community against Raila Odinga.
After the Wiper leader has antagonised Raila, Musalia, Wetangula, Ruto, the 3 Kamba governors, HE the President... who else will he work with in the future? Are Senators Kiio, Mutula and MP Maanzo helping Kalonzo to write his political obituary? Wiper is working so hard to alienate the Kamba community from the rest of Kenyans. But the community is wiser than before.
Wiper had shambolic party nominations even after the cream of the region's candidates had chosen other parties. Her candidates are now part of a second eleven. Democratic elections are about persuasion and fair competition. Wiper leaders are still buried in the one party era. They believe they can establish a one party dictatorship in the Ukambani region and impose their candidates (six piece suit) and the DP demand on Raila. Azimio must not continue to watch its house burn and not do something about it.
