Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi. 
By Andrew Mbuva.
Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi has strongly defended the integrity of the Wiper Patriotic Front nomination process, dismissing claims that the party’s 2027 gubernatorial primaries will not be free and fair.
Speaking during an interview at his office, Mwangangi criticised a section of leaders from the Lower Eastern region for what he termed as deliberate attempts to mislead the public and justify their recent political shifts, particularly towards President William Ruto.
In a pointed attack, the Deputy Governor singled out Nzioka Waita, accusing him of seeking a direct nomination ticket from Wiper, only to defect after being denied the request. Mwangangi claimed that Waita had approached party leader Kalonzo Musyoka for a direct certificate but was advised to compete fairly alongside other aspirants.
“You cannot ask for a direct ticket when there are already candidates on the ground. When that request was declined, you chose to leave and align yourself elsewhere, then return to claim the process is not credible,” Mwangangi said.
He argued that such claims about flawed nominations are merely a cover for political decisions already made, noting that Wiper has not even commenced its primaries.
The Deputy Governor further warned leaders against importing political divisions into the Ukambani region, maintaining that the community remains united despite efforts to destabilise it. He criticised what he described as attempts to use national political proximity and public appearances to gain local influence.
Mwangangi also took issue with Patrick Makau, accusing the legislator of publicly pressuring Kalonzo for preferential treatment in the party’s nomination process. He termed such conduct as disrespectful to the party leadership and its supporters.
“It is important to respect leadership. You cannot threaten the party leader and expect to be handed a ticket,” he stated.
At the same time, he faulted some leaders for their past political choices, including their stance on key national matters, saying they should take responsibility rather than shifting blame to party systems.
Reaffirming the party’s position, Mwangangi insisted that Wiper will conduct a transparent nomination exercise and that the electorate will ultimately determine the winners.
“There are no shortcuts. The strongest candidate will emerge through a fair process, and wananchi will decide,” he said.
His remarks come amid heightened political activity in the Lower Eastern region as aspirants begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.
