Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti and her Deputy Francis Mwangangi leads Wiper Leaders in drumming up support for Mumbuni North Ward Wiper Candidate Antony Kisoi. Photo by Andrew Mbuva. 
By Ryan Mumo
The Wiper Democratic Movement has transformed the upcoming Mumbuni North Ward by-election into a litmus test for its leader, Kalonzo Musyoka, signaling the party’s renewed push to consolidate its political base ahead of the 2027 General Election.
On Thursday, top Wiper leaders led by Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti camped at Kisooni Grounds in Machakos, where they drummed up support for the party’s candidate, Anthony Kisoi, in the November 27 contest.
The rally, attended by leaders from both within and outside the Ukambani region, underscored Kalonzo’s growing political visibility and his renewed bid for national relevance.
Governor Wavinya described the upcoming vote as a “definitive moment” for the Wiper leader, urging residents to rally behind Kisoi to demonstrate unwavering support for Kalonzo’s 2027 presidential ambitions.
“We will continue with our Vomwe and Vetwe political spirit. We believe in a God who never fails, and our victory is near,” Wavinya told the cheering crowd. “Some people think the Kamba nation is weak and can be walked over, but those days are gone. We will not allow anyone to mock or undermine us again.”
In a passionate speech, Wavinya said the Kamba community had been unfairly underestimated for too long, insisting that Kalonzo’s calm demeanor should not be mistaken for weakness.
“You take Kalonzo Musyoka for granted because he is peaceful and not loud,” she said. “But the one you mock today will be the one to surprise you tomorrow. As a Kamba proverb says, the liver chokes because of being despised — and those who despise Kalonzo will be shocked.”
Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi echoed her sentiments, terming the contest a “battle for pride” between Wiper and Maendeleo Chap Chap. He said the by-election had grown beyond local politics and now symbolized the broader political face-off between Kalonzo and those seeking to weaken his influence nationally.
Machakos Senator Agnes Kavindu emphasized the importance of delivering the seat to Wiper, calling it a direct reflection of Kalonzo’s grassroots strength.
“This seat is not just for Kisoi — it is for Wiper, and we must deliver it at all costs,” Senator Kavindu said.
The rally also drew national attention, with Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa revealing that former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua had sent him to attend the event.
“The opposition is closely watching what happens here in Kalonzo’s backyard,” Karungo told the gathering. “I bring greetings from Rigathi Gachagua, who says — do not embarrass Kalonzo in this by-election.”
The Mumbuni North Ward seat fell vacant following the death of Gideon Kavuu of the Maendeleo Chap Chap Party. Four candidates will battle for the seat — Wiper’s Anthony Kisoi, Maendeleo Chap Chap’s Harrison Wambua, UDA’s Misi Mutua, and the National Liberation Party’s Mutisya wa Ngai — in what is shaping up to be a closely watched and fiercely contested race.
With political temperatures rising, the by-election has become more than just a local affair — it is now seen as a barometer of Kalonzo Musyoka’s political grip in Ukambani and a preview of the alliances and rivalries that could define the 2027 presidential race.
