Mutuse Takes Aim At Mbaluka, Labels Him ‘Political Conman’ In Kibwezi West Showdown

By Andrew Mbuva 

Kibwezi West Member of Parliament Mwengi Mutuse has launched a scathing attack on his main rival James Kimanthi Mbaluka, accusing him of political opportunism and misleading voters ahead of the next general election.

Speaking during a local engagement in Kibwezi, Mutuse dismissed Mbaluka as a “political conman,” alleging that his opponent was attempting to manipulate residents for personal gain. He claimed that recent attempts by Mbaluka’s camp to gain ground in areas such as Emali were aimed at intimidating his supporters but insisted that such efforts would not succeed.

“Kibwezi belongs to all of us, and we will not allow leaders who deceive wananchi to take over,” Mutuse said, in a fiery address that underscored the intensifying political rivalry in the constituency.

Mbaluka, who vied in the last election under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket and finished second, has since defected to the Wiper Democratic Movement. Mutuse, on the other hand, was elected on a Maendeleo Chap Chap ticket but is now expected to defend his seat under UDA, setting the stage for a high-stakes political showdown.

The MP accused his opponent of dishonesty, particularly over claims regarding his fallout with the government. Mutuse argued that development projects initiated by the national government should not be politicized, adding that leaders should focus on service delivery rather than personal enrichment.

He pointed to several ongoing and completed projects in the constituency as evidence of his performance, including the tarmacking of the Emali–Ukia Road and the construction of modern markets such as the Makindu Modern Market. According to Mutuse, these projects reflect tangible progress made under his leadership in collaboration with the national government.

“If the people of Kibwezi West trusted me when I had no development record, how much more now when we have delivered major projects?” he posed, expressing confidence in securing re-election.

The political contest between Mutuse and Mbaluka is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched races in the region, with party realignments and development agendas likely to dominate campaign narratives in the run-up to the polls.