Matungulu East MCA Julius Munywoki shows one of the closed UDA offices in his Ward. Photo by Muthini Paul 
By Muthini Paul
Political cracks are beginning to emerge within the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) in Machakos County, after Matungulu East ward representative Julius Munywoki announced he has closed down all UDA offices in his area citing frustration and lack of respect from fellow members.
Speaking to journalists at his political office, Munywoki claimed that there was a deliberate scheme to isolate him from the party despite his personal sacrifices in building its presence on the ground.
“UDA in Machakos County is operating like a briefcase party because we don’t have an office. Every time I point this out I am told that I am being abusive,” he said.
The MCA revealed that he had rented and furnished the only party offices in Matungulu East, even employing staff to run them, but has now shut them down.
“I have been using my own money to build this party but nobody has ever valued my efforts. I actually used a lot of money to a tune of Ksh 5 million to run for this seat and won against a strong Wiper wave, but instead of being congratulated, I am now facing intimidation within the party,” Munywoki lamented.
The outspoken MCA further expressed disappointment that his constituency has been sidelined in development projects despite his loyalty to the President and UDA.
“It is unfortunate that I belong to the ruling party but my area lacks water. Except the Kinyui stadium being built here, I have no other government project to point at. I have written to NYS and REA seeking for projects but all that has been frustrated,” he said.
Munywoki also criticized recent remarks by UDA’s National Organizing Secretary Vincent Musyoka who allegedly said that an ongoing road project would bypass Matungulu because it is considered an opposition stronghold.
“Just because Matungulu MP Stephen Mule is in the opposition, does it mean we are all in the opposition? I was elected on a UDA ticket. Why is it that my people are not getting development?” he posed.
The MCA, who apologized to his constituents for introducing them to the party, said the internal wrangles in UDA were weakening the President’s agenda.
“With this small infighting happening at this level we are spoiling for the President. We need to be united and focused,” he added, noting that he has never met President Ruto personally but only joined UDA because he believed in its ideologies.
Munywoki urged the Head of State to intervene and address the divisions within the party in Machakos, warning that residents were growing bitter over exclusion from government development programs.
