By Anchor Writers
Storm Brews in Machakos Assembly Over Proposed Leadership Changes
[Exclusive]
The Wiper Democratic Movement faces turbulence at the Machakos County Assembly following its decision to shake up the assembly’s leadership.
At the center of the storm is an aborted motion of no confidence against Speaker Anne Kiusya, spearheaded by Felix Ngui, the MCA for Katangi Ward and Vice Chairman of the County Assembly Service Board (CASB).
Despite instructions from party leader Kalonzo Musyoka to drop the plan, Ngui proceeded with the motion, triggering internal party conflicts.
Sources reveal that Mr. Musyoka initially thought through the removal of Ms. Kiusya after receiving complaints about her leadership. However, after conducting his own investigations, he resolved to back the Speaker and directed the ouster plan to be abandoned.
Ngui’s defiance led to the party recommending his removal from CASB, to be replaced by Deputy Majority Whip Winnifred Mutua. Ms. Mutua, in turn, was to be succeeded by long-time party loyalist Dee Kivuva.
Ms. Mutua works at close quarters with the party leader, and her elevation to the SASB, even when she rarely attends assembly sessions, is sending shivers down the spine of Governor Ndeti with possible ramifications in 2027.
The clash between Mr. Ngui and the Speaker is said to have originated from the redeployment of Caroline Mutuku, an administrative officer by County Clerk Dennis Mutui.
Observers have questioned why such a routine administrative matter has escalated into a full-blown political dispute, yet matters told to The Anchor appear extremely personal.
Despite a directive from Wiper Secretary General Shakila Abdalla for the leadership changes to be implemented, Majority Leader Nicholas Nzioka Wangondi and a group of MCAs resisted the move, writing to the party to oppose it.
This resistance is reportedly being viewed as a challenge to Mr. Musyoka’s authority. Party Mandarins suspect Governor Wavinya Ndeti is in league with Wangondi to resist the party leadership.
As of press time, the party had not responded to the MCAs’ letter. Attempts to get comments from Speaker Kiusya, Mr. Wangondi, or Ms. Mutuku were unsuccessful.
The ongoing wrangles have sparked concern about the stability of the assembly, with Wiper insiders warning of potential disciplinary action against dissenting members.
