Makueni County’s Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr speaks to residents during a previous public event. IMAGE | Courtesy
In Summary:
1) Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr criticizes the disruption of Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka’s press conference by alleged goons.
2) Mutula affirms Ukambani region’s support for Kalonzo’s 2027 presidential bid and calls for respect from ODM.
Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr has taken a firm stance in defense of Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka following a chaotic incident at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation.
The governor strongly condemned the disruption of Musyoka’s press conference by alleged goons, stating, “It’s unacceptable for a presidential candidate to be chased away by goons. This is extremely unfortunate, ODM must treat Kalonzo Musyoka with respect.”
The incident saw over 50 youths storm the venue, shouting, “Nobody disrespects Raila when we are alive, no press conference here,” as they upended chairs and forced an abrupt end to the briefing.
Governor Mutula emphasized Kalonzo’s past loyalty to Raila, suggesting that betrayal has become commonplace.
He declared, “We as Kamba leaders under the leadership of Kalonzo are not relenting. Raila go join Ruto and don’t force us to follow you.”
In response to the disruption, Raila Odinga’s spokesperson, Dennis Onyango, issued a statement saying, “Raila Odinga regrets the events of yesterday (Wednesday) and takes this early opportunity to offer unreserved apologies to the journalists and fellow leaders who got caught up in the unfortunate incident.”
Governor Mutula reaffirmed the Ukambani region’s support for Kalonzo’s 2027 presidential bid, describing him as “the safe pair of hands that can usher Kenya into prosperity.” He criticized the current administration, stating, “It’s now two years after these guys got elected into office and they have bought choppers and are living very cosy lives, I believe Kalonzo cannot misuse poor Kenyans.”
The governor concluded by calling on young protesters to abstain from destructive actions, saying, “I believe Kalonzo cannot misuse poor Kenyans.”
He emphasized the need for constitutional adherence and national unity under Kalonzo’s leadership, with his sentiments echoed by other local leaders, including Kisungi Katete, the majority leader in the Makueni County Assembly.