The Migwani ward by-election in Kitui County, scheduled for November 17, has become a crucial test of influence between Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and President William Ruto's United Democratic Alliance (UDA). The by-election was triggered by the resignation of former MCA Harrison Maluki on August 6, who took up the position of Kitui County Assembly Clerk. Maluki, who was elected on a Wiper ticket in 2022, is now associated with the Ruto camp.
UDA leaders have intensified their campaigns in Migwani ward, seeking to make inroads into a region traditionally associated with Kalonzo and his Wiper party. The government camp is linking its campaign to national government development projects, including the ongoing tarmacking of the Kwa Siku-Migwani-Mbondoni road. This approach aims to demonstrate the government's commitment to the region's development.
Kalonzo Musyoka has urged residents to accept government projects but make their political choice at the ballot box. During a rally at his Kitui rural home, he told supporters to collect government funds but vote for their preferred candidate to demonstrate their readiness to bring the presidency home. This message is seen as an attempt to maintain his influence in the region.
The by-election has also exposed divisions among some of Kalonzo's former allies in Kitui. Aspirant Mwinzi Maluki has distanced himself from Wiper's political approach, urging voters to look beyond party labels and assess candidates based on their individual qualities. Kitui speaker Kevin Katisya has also called for voters to be allowed to choose their preferred candidate rather than having the choice determined by party structures.
UDA is yet to nominate its candidate, with the party having scheduled its Migwani ward nominations for October 9. Among those seeking the ticket are Mwinzi Maluki and Mûtûa Muthui. The nominations process is expected to determine the party's candidate for the by-election.
The Migwani by-election provides an opportunity for the government to test whether its development agenda and growing network of local political allies can translate into electoral support in Kitui. For Wiper, retaining the ward will reinforce Kalonzo's political base at a time when he is seeking to fly the united opposition flag in the 2027 presidential contest.
The timing of the by-election adds weight to the showdown, coming shortly after UDA and Wiper figures traded accusations over Kalonzo's relationship with the government. UDA leaders from Ukambani have publicly urged him to consider working with President Ruto, while Wiper has reaffirmed its commitment to a united opposition.
Key points
- The by-election is seen as an early test of influence between Kalonzo Musyoka's Wiper and President William Ruto's UDA in Ukambani.
- The government camp is linking its campaign to national government development projects in the region.
- The by-election has exposed divisions among some of Kalonzo's former allies in Kitui.