Wiper Party rift deepens as Makau and Mwangangi clash over Ukambani loyalty
By Faith Lagat, June 6, 2025Political tensions are escalating within the Wiper Party in Ukambani, as a public clash unfolds between Mavoko MP Patrick Makau and Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi. The bitter feud, fuelled by accusations of youth manipulation and disloyalty, threatens to tear apart the party just as the 2027 general elections draw closer.
The dispute came into sharp focus during a recent Wiper leaders’ meeting in Machakos on June 6, 2025, where Mwangangi openly accused Makau of using young people to incite violence.
He described this act as a betrayal of the party’s values and a direct insult to the party leader, Kalonzo Musyoka.
“Patrick Makau is deliberately using the youth to destabilise peace in Ukambani and undermine the core principles that our party stands for,” Mwangangi said with conviction.
Makau, however, quickly dismissed these claims, describing them as political tactics meant to deflect attention from Mwangangi’s poor performance in governance.
In his sentiments, he said, “These accusations are baseless and are intended to cover up his failures to deliver meaningful development to the people of Machakos. My commitment remains firm to unite our people and foster progress in our region.”
This public spat is just the tip of deeper divisions within the Wiper Party. The rift widened notably after Mwangangi criticised certain party leaders for their perceived closeness to State House, a move he called a “direct insult” to Kalonzo Musyoka and a betrayal of the aspirations of the Kamba community.
“Those who prioritise personal gain over the unity and welfare of our people must be held accountable,” Mwangangi warned sternly.
Political analysts have raised concerns about the impact of these internal conflicts on Wiper’s electoral prospects in Ukambani. Mwangi Kioko, a respected political commentator, noted, “If these disputes are not resolved soon, they risk fragmenting the party’s voter base, potentially handing the advantage to rival parties during the 2027 elections.”
Despite the growing discord, Kalonzo Musyoka has urged party members to set aside their differences and focus on the bigger picture. In a recent statement, he emphasised, “Our strength lies in unity. The people of Ukambani deserve leaders who prioritise development over division and personal vendettas.”
As the 2027 elections approach, the Wiper Party’s ability to heal these internal wounds will be critical in maintaining its political influence in the region. For now, the ongoing showdown between Makau and Mwangangi highlights the fragile nature of political alliances in Ukambani, a reminder that loyalty and leadership are continually tested in the ever-shifting landscape of Kenyan politics.