The Wiper Patriotic Party is poised for a potential internal battle as it prepares to choose its candidate for the Kitui gubernatorial race in the 2027 General Election. 

The ideological struggle within the party is set to pit some of its most loyal members against each other, with significant consequences for the political landscape in the region. 

Political analysts predict that party leader Kalonzo Musyoka may face significant challenges in his home county, with multiple prominent figures vying for the nomination. 

Should any of the top contenders—Senator Enock Wambua, Kitui Central MP Makali Mulu, or Woman Representative Irene Kasalu—lose the party’s nomination, fairly or unfairly, it is likely that they will break away from the party, campaigning to undermine the eventual winner. 

Wambua, Mulu, and Kasalu will face off in the Wiper’s preliminary nominations to determine who gets the ticket to challenge candidates from other parties. 

Former Governor Charity Ngilu, who served as governor between 2017 and 2022, has also signalled her intention to run again. She did not defend her seat after completing one term, but now appears determined to reclaim the position. 

Observers draw parallels between this election and the 2017 General Election, when former Senator David Musila lost the Wiper nomination to incumbent Governor Julius Malombe. Musila accused Kalonzo of favouring Malombe and, after his loss, left the party to support Malombe’s rival. Both Musila and Malombe eventually lost to Ngilu in the general election. Malombe alleged that after Musila’s loss, he collaborated with the rival Jubilee party to undermine Wiper and damage Kalonzo’s future political prospects. 

Last Saturday, Wambua officially declared his candidacy for the 2027 gubernatorial race, addressing an enthusiastic crowd of about 7,000 at Kyondoni Comprehensive School in his Kitui West rural home. The senator outlined his vision to unlock the county’s untapped resources and foster prosperity for its people. 

Formidable competition 

In a charged rally, Wambua boldly stated his belief in securing a victory in the upcoming general elections, despite formidable competition from party rivals Mulu, Kasalu, and Nicholas Mulila, Safaricom’s Chief Risk Management and Security Officer. 

Although not yet officially confirmed, sources suggest that UDA’s Livestock PS, Jonathan Mueke and former CS Peninah Malonza are also eyeing the seat. 

Wambua dismissed any doubts about his candidacy, insisting that he would not abandon his aspirations to become the third Governor of Kitui after Malombe and Ngilu. He declared, “You should brace yourselves for a tough and determined battle, one that we will certainly win.” 

The rally included several notable figures, such as Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, his counterparts from Nyandarua, Kiambu, Mandera, Murang’a, Laikipia, and ODM’s nominated MP Beth Syengo. They rallied behind Wambua, applauding his commitment to making difficult decisions for the county’s future. 

“We must secure our environment, create opportunities for all, and engage in honest conversations about what works and what does not,” Wambua told the crowd.

“Only then will we move forward together and overcome the challenges of our time.” Wambua then emphasised his unwavering commitment to the race, stating, “I, Enock Kiio Wambua, after years of prayer, soul-searching, and consultations, including receiving unsolicited public support, offer myself as a candidate for the governor’s seat in 2027. I serve my second term as Kitui County Senator and as the Deputy Minority Leader in the Senate, and I am encouraged by the trust that my party and coalition have placed in me.” 

He further warned the Kamba people: “If we don’t define ourselves, others will define us for their own gain, using us for selfish purposes.”

Ngilu, who made history as the first woman to run for president in Kenya, is known for her political sharpness, resilience, and strong support among youth and women.

She has repeatedly stated her intention to run for the governor’s seat once again, despite her failure to defend it in 2022. 

“My resolve to return to office is motivated by the public’s desire for change,” Ngilu said. “While the 2027 elections are still two-and-a-half years away, it’s crucial that the voters prepare themselves to elect leaders who will truly serve their interests.” 

Mulila’s candidacy has added complexity to the race, sending ripples of concern among Kalonzo’s allies. Sources have questioned why Mulila, with his high-ranking position at Safaricom, would leave such a lucrative job to enter the political arena, particularly against seasoned politicians like Ngilu.

However, others describe him as an accomplished leader, adept in financial management and strategic governance. 

Many view Mulila as a “solutions governor” rather than a “crisis governor,” someone who would not misuse his office. He has maintained a low profile, preferring to let his work speak for itself. 

Speaking at a Kitui hotel two months ago, Mulila confirmed his intention to seek the people’s mandate for governor.

With over 20 years of experience in strategic planning, financial management, risk management, and corporate governance, he is seen as a highly qualified candidate. 

Mulila has made a significant impact in Kitui, contributing generously to schools, churches, and local health projects.

His belief in equal opportunity for all has shaped his work, ensuring that people in underserved areas benefit from improved infrastructure, education, and health services.