File photo of Ex-CS Penina Malonza, speaking during the release of the 2022 Tourism Sector Performance Report at Fairmont Norfolk, Nairobi, on February 22, 2023. Malonza later served as the CS for the Ministry of EAC, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands, and Regional Development before being dismissed in July 2024 amid Gen-Z-led protests and a cabinet reshuffle
- Former CS Penina Malonza criticized Kalonzo Musyoka’s leadership and questioned his development record.
Former Cabinet Secretary for EAC, ASALs & Regional Development, Penina Malonza, has openly criticized Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who she referred to as the self-proclaimed Chief Opposition leader and Ukambani Kingpin.
Speaking at a well-attended luncheon in her home constituency of Kitui South, where over a thousand supporters gathered, Malonza questioned Musyoka’s leadership and his record in bringing development and job opportunities to the Kamba community during his time in government.
“I hear he (Kalonzo) is in Mombasa declaring himself as the Chief Opposition leader. He should join the government because he can’t deliver anything. I am the new leader of Operation Okoa Ukambani,” Malonza stated, asserting her new role as the region’s leader.
She further criticized Musyoka’s tenure as Minister for Tourism, contrasting it with her achievements, such as the establishment of a Kasaala Game Reserve Gate in Kitui County.
Malonza expressed her frustration with the Wiper Party, warning that any Wiper activity in Kitui South would face resistance. She encouraged the formation of a new party aligned with the broad-based government.
Malonza also challenged Kalonzo’s self-declared opposition leadership, pointing out that the position constitutionally belongs to Junet Mohammed.
She urged the Kamba community to shift from opposition to government after 15 years, positioning herself as the “Deborah” who would lead them forward.
“As Kalonzo is in Mombasa speaking about the opposition, I am here as your Deborah to take you forward,” Malonza said. “We’ve been in the opposition for 15 years. It’s time to move forward. The opposition leader is Junet Mohammed as per the constitution. Someone is misleading the Kamba community, claiming to be the opposition leader.”
In her concluding remarks, Malonza called for the government to investigate her tenure, stating that she has not misappropriated any funds during her 20 months of service in two ministries.