Former Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana Speaking at a Burial in Nguu/Masumba on October 30, 2025. Photo by Andrew Mbuva. 
By Andrew Mbuva
A dramatic political exchange played out on Thursday during the burial of prominent businessman Jackson Mulei in Nguu/Masumba Ward, Makueni County, when former Governor Prof. Kivutha Kibwana advised Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse to abandon President William Ruto’s camp and join the Opposition if he hopes to survive politically beyond 2027.
Prof. Kibwana, addressing mourners at the emotional send-off, told Mutuse that “a wise person reads the weather” and acts before it is too late. He described himself as a “political father” to the youthful MP and urged him to reconsider his allegiance to the ruling side, warning that the political tide in the Ukambani region was shifting fast.
“I want to tell Mr. Mwengi Mutuse that a wise person looks at the weather — and if it’s about to rain, you find shelter before it’s too late. This is just advice as your political father,” said Kibwana. “Move faster and join the Opposition because remaining in Ruto’s side will bear no fruits for you. I’m saying this as a friend, because I can’t sit and watch you heading in the wrong direction.”
Kibwana’s remarks drew acceptance murmurs from the crowd and appeared to have been directed at Mutuse, a known ally of President Ruto and the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition.
Before Kibwana's speech, a visibly agitated Mutuse had complained of some unamed individuals who he accused of trying to turn the burial into a political stage.
The MP, who was momentarily interrupted by heckles from a section of the crowd, accused unnamed individuals of hiring youth to disrupt his speech.
“There’s no need to bring politics to a burial ceremony. Those who want political rallies should take them to marketplaces,” said Mutuse. “Those of us buying alcohol for youths to make noise during burials should stop such behavior. No political victory will be achieved through that means.”
He called for respect toward the bereaved family, urging mourners to focus on consoling the Mulei family rather than engaging in political showdowns.
“If I were to come with my supporters here to start yelling, would that be respectful? Let us respect the family that is mourning today. Shetani ashindwe! We know those behind this,” Mutuse said to loud cheers from his supporters.
Despite the tension, the MP took time to welcome former Chief Justice David Maraga — who has declared his intention to run for president in 2027 — and gospel artist-turned-politician Ruben Kigame, terming their presence “a great honor” to the people of Kibwezi.
“Today was about condoling with the family. We’ve gathered here from all corners of the country, and I urge everyone to avoid petty local politics. I’m here with you, and politically, I will sort you — because I believe I’m the strongest,” Mutuse concluded.
The incident underscored the widening political cracks in the Ukambani region, where a number of leaders appear to be realigning ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Prof. Kibwana’s remarks are being interpreted as part of a broader push by regional leaders to consolidate support behind Opposition chief Kalonzo Musyoka, who has recently re-emerged as a key player in national politics.
