From Left: Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse and Mwala MP Vincent Musyoka. Photo By Andrew Mbuva 
By Andrew Mbuva
United Democratic Alliance (UDA) leaders in Makueni have sharply criticized Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse of the Maendeleo Chap Chap party over remarks he made against UDA’s National Organizing Secretary, Vincent Musyoka alias Kawaya.
The UDA leaders, led by Makueni County Coordinator Athunus Mainga and Nominated MCA Josephine Muasa, accused Mutuse of disrespecting Kawaya during campaigns for the Mumbuni North Ward by-election.
Mutuse, while drumming up support for the Maendeleo Chap Chap candidate Harrison Wambua Mutuku, dismissed Kawaya’s involvement in the race, arguing that he had no mandate to campaign outside his Mwala Constituency.
The MP further maintained that Machakos Town legislator Caleb Mule should spearhead the campaigns in Mumbuni, being the area’s elected leader and a Maendeleo Chap Chap member.
He went as far as mocking Kawaya, likening him to “rusted wires,” and warning that he feared no one.
But the comments have sparked outrage in UDA circles. “We have met today as the UDA house to deliberate on matters affecting our party. The attacks directed at Kawaya are uncalled for and an insult not just to him, but to the President himself who appointed him as the National Organizing Secretary,” Mainga said.
He accused Maendeleo Chap Chap leader Dr. Alfred Mutua of instigating the attacks. “We understand very well that those MPs are acting on your instructions. CS Mutua, if you are not comfortable being in President Ruto’s government, then step aside quietly and stop creating unnecessary divisions in Ukambani,” he charged.
On her part, MCA Muasa underscored Kawaya’s national role, saying it gives him the authority to campaign across the country.
“Kawaya is not just an MP; he is the UDA National Organizing Secretary responsible for all 47 counties. He has every right to traverse constituencies to support UDA candidates. Mwengi must learn to respect that,” she said.
The leaders also warned against attempts to fracture President Ruto’s support base in the region. “Let’s respect each other and avoid divisive politics. Ukambani needs unity, not insults,” Mainga added.
Kawaya, who doubles as the Mwala MP, has been spearheading campaigns for UDA’s Misi Mutua in the Mumbuni North Ward race, directly clashing with Maendeleo Chap Chap’s efforts in the contest.
