Speaking during the funeral of Mary Wangui Ngari, a Principal Nurse at KenGen’s Eastern Hydros at Donbosco in Mbeere South,Mundigi defended the initiative, saying it is transforming lives across the country.

“Let the former Chief Justice stop attacking a programme that is changing lives on the ground. I have seen the impact myself. Kindiki is delivering real help to the people,” said Mundigi.

He dismissed Maraga’s alleged claim that the empowerment funds were proceeds of theft, calling the statement reckless and baseless.

“The Kenya Kwanza government promised to focus on housing, health, youth employment, and the empowerment of women and young people. What Kindiki is doing is exactly what we pledged to Kenyans,” Mundigi added.

He further urged Maraga to enjoy his retirement instead of making political statements.

“Maraga had his time. Now it’s time to let others work. He should relax and allow leaders to deliver.”Mundigi stated.

Mundigi advised beneficiaries of the empowerment programme to invest wisely.

“Use the money to buy land, join a Sacco, or start a business. Don’t break it into small amounts that disappear quickly. Grow yourselves and contribute to the economy.” senator Mundigi noted.

The Senator also emphasized that DP Kindiki and President William Ruto have every right to traverse all 47 counties to deliver development and empowerment, saying their efforts should not be politicized.

Turning his attention to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Mundigi criticized him over recent comments that appeared to discourage Kenyans abroad from investing back home.

“That’s misleading and unfair. Gachagua himself has invested in Kenya. Why tell others not to do the same? I urge our brothers and sisters abroad to invest in their country. One day, they’ll come back and benefit from it,” he said.

He concluded by calling on the government to create more job opportunities for Kenyan youth abroad, noting that this would boost incomes and strengthen the economy.

"As we received our new certificate, we were keenly aware of the significance of the timing. Political parties are not static but should be responsive to the people ", said Senior Counsel Dr. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka.

The party is positioning itself for the upcoming 2027 General Elections. In a strongly worded statement on X, Musyoka said, "We acknowledge our responsibility to rescue and reclaim our beloved nation from the clutches of tyrannical dictatorship".

WPF will field candidates for all electoral offices, said the party leader.

The event was attended by Secretary General Senator Shakila Abdalla, Deputy Secretary General and Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo, Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua among other party officials and members.

Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi led the charge, voicing frustration that it had taken a young citizen to urge Gachagua to embrace national cohesion rather than sow division.

Speaking when he was launching rural electrification projects in Runyenjes, Wandayi lamented that it was now the youth reminding senior leaders about the importance of unity and patriotism values that leaders themselves should be instilling.

He underscored that national growth hinges on leaders who promote unity, peace, and inclusivity. He also pointed to President William Ruto’s inclusive leadership, especially through his cooperation with opposition chief Raila Odinga to build a government that represents all Kenyans.

Echoing Wandayi’s position, Principal Secretary for Energy Alex Wachira rebutted Gachagua’s assertion that Mount Kenya had been marginalized under the current administration.

Wachira cited the appointment of eight Cabinet Secretaries and 15 Principal Secretaries from the region as evidence of President Ruto’s commitment to fair representation.

He encouraged locals to align with the government's development agenda, cautioning that more could be achieved through collaboration than political confrontation.

Embu Deputy Governor Kinyua Mugo joined in, warning residents against falling for divisive rhetoric pushed by self-serving politicians bent on creating instability.

Runyenjes MP Muchangi Karemba also weighed in, urging his constituents to prioritize service delivery over political maneuvering. He commended the government for expanding access to electricity, saying it would help stimulate economic activity and create jobs.

Karemba further appealed to the Ministry of Energy to set up a Kenya Power office within Runyenjes to make it easier for residents to report and resolve power-related issues, noting that they currently face long travel distances.

Embu senator Alexander Mundigi also urged Embu residents not to be duped to align with leaders who are not in government.

The leaders were unanimous in calling for unity and development-focused politics, urging citizens to shun divisive agendas and support national progress.

Embu county is set to benefit with Sh 568 million to connect locals with electricity where 6,365 household will benefit .

Despite intensive deliberations spearheaded by party officials, the eight aspirants eyeing the UDA ticket failed to agree on a compromise candidate to face off with the opposition in what is shaping up to be a high-stakes political showdown.

Among those in the race are Embu County Assembly Speaker Josiah Thiriku, former MP Muriuki Njagagua, his brother Dr. Murage Njagagua, Leonard Muthende, Konji Kwayo, Ngari Makindu, Dr. Dun Mbogo, and former County Assembly Speaker Kariuki Mate.

The party had hoped to avoid internal competition by rallying behind a consensus candidate, but with the talks collapsing, the battleground has now officially shifted to the grassroots.

In an agreement seen by MWINGI TIMES and signed by all the aspirants and the UDA party Chairperson Cecily Mbarire, they agreed for nominations to pick one fragbear who will tussle it out with opposition candidate in the contest.

With nominations looming, Mbeere North is expected to witness a flurry of political activity as the aspirants hit the ground running, pitching tent in villages and market centres to rally support and outshine each other in popularity.

The failed consensus sets the stage for a spirited campaign period, with each hopeful now sharpening their strategy to secure the coveted UDA ticket widely seen as a possible pass to Parliament in the vote-rich constituency.

As the clock ticks toward nominations, the people of Mbeere North brace for a political season like no other.

Other candidates eyeing Mbeere North MP seat include Newton Karish who is seeking election on Democratic party and Dun Mbui who will square it out with Rigathi Gachagua's DCP party.

 The tour also comes amid reports that Kalonzo Musyoka-led Wiper Patriotic Front, formerly Wiper Democratic Movement, will deny Nguna the party ticket to defend his seat in 2027 elections in favour of his opponent and former Kitui County Government Executive member Koki Musau alias Kuvasila over allegations of  “party loyalty and defiance.” Nguna’s other serious challenger is a newcomer in politics, Eng Jonathan Ngenga.

The MP will commission Kathumulani-Kyome-Ndaluni murram road and Ndaluni Secondary School classrooms in Kyome location in the morning before moving to commission the Bazaar-Kavililo-Kaikungu-Kanyaa murram road and five classrooms at Kavililo Primary School in Nzauni location in the afternoon.

Nguna defended his leadership and called on residents to exercise patience, declaring to deliver on his promises.

“I want to exude confidence that before 2027, many projects will have been implemented to completion,” he said.

He asked his competitors and constituency leaders to keep off from obstructing, disrupting or undue improper influencing a Chinese contractor from fulfilling his contractual obligations on the upgrading to bitumen standards the stalled session at Kwasiku-Migwani-Mbondoni road along the Kibwezi-Kitui highway.

Nguna said the contractor should be let free to do his work and uphold the integrity of the contract and protect the rights and responsibilities of the contract undertaken by the Chinese M/s Sinohydro Xia Corporation Ltd.

Speaking during the burial of Mama Mali Mutambu, 83, at AIC Thokoa Comprehensive School grounds in Kyome-Thaana ward in his constituency, the MP said President William Ruto committed his government that the works at the dilapidated 27 km section connecting Kwasiku to Mbondoni commences before his visit to the county on the Mashujaa Day on October 20, with the contractor moving to the site at Kathumulani area in Kyome location before embarking on the upgrading.

“The deal is final and sealed. We now see light at the end of the tunnel on this great road. It has been my prayer and aspiration for the tarmacking of the remaining stretch that passes through my constituency. It has been a challenging task to fight for the resumption of the works after the upgrading stalled in 2020 and the contractor pulled out. It has now come to pass with the contractor resuming works at this moment,” the MP said.

He thanked the President for committing himself fully in ensuring the completion of the crucial road that stalled at Kwa-Siku in Mwingi  West constituency in 2020, making transport difficult and expensive for motorists and passengers.

The MP said it was an open secret that sometime back he held talks with the President where they discussed development issues and agreed to partner on significant matters in making people’s lives better.

He said there is strength and unity of purpose for people to chart a united front and coalesce together for political, social and economic growth in their respective zones.

Nguna called on leaders across the political divide to discard politics of witch-hunt, hatred and bickering and focus on the region’s shared development agenda. “Our people have well-defined priorities, and these will serve as the foundation of our efforts to uplift Kitui and Ukambani at large. It is time for development,” the MP said.

He said key priorities identified included improving roads, enhancing access to clean water, advancing education, expanding electrification, ensuring affordable housing, and boosting progress across critical sectors.

Nguna sought to explain that his desire and vision were primarily to see all county leaders, irrespective of political affiliation, come together at one table to forge a shared common goal for the benefit of the community populace.

“We need to achieve our collective dream of having all our regional leaders irrespective of parties of affiliation come together at a negotiating table to chart a common agenda for our people” the MP said.

Speaking after attending the funeral of former Mavuria Ward Councillor Dinisio Nduma Minigi in Embu County, Senator Mundigi condemned the remarks as reckless and harmful to the country’s already struggling economy.

“At a time when the economy is hanging by a thread, telling our brothers and sisters abroad not to send money home is not just irresponsible. It is economic sabotage,” said Mundigi.

He urged Kenyans in the diaspora to ignore what he termed as “careless political rhetoric” and continue supporting their families and communities through remittances.

“Diaspora remittances are not just a lifeline for households; they are a pillar of our economy. We must protect and encourage that flow, not attack it with reckless statements,” he added.

The senator also threw his weight behind the government’s empowerment programs, saying they are important steps toward economic recovery and growth.

He called on political leaders to avoid divisive remarks and instead focus on building a united nation.

“Let’s stop the noise and get to work. This is the time for leaders to inspire confidence, not chaos. The future of Kenya demands collective responsibility and patriotism,” Mundigi said.

He concluded by urging Kenyans to support the government as it works to fulfill promises made during the 2022 election campaigns, emphasizing that unity and focus are key to steering the country forward.

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang'i came in second with 23% in the opinion poll while former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was third with 16% rating.

While responding to why ex-DP Gachagua is the most popular politician yet he was not believed to be the preferred opposition flag bearer, Mr Oyiego said, "You can be a popular candidate but not the kind of person Kenyans want to become president".

5,000 people were interviewed in this survey from across the country.

During a press briefing held in Karambari market, the residents urged President Dr William Ruto, who also serves as the UDA party leader, to consider awarding the party’s nomination directly to a candidate from Muminji, citing decades of political marginalization.

“Since independence, Muminji has never produced a Member of Parliament. All other wards have had their turn. It is time for inclusivity and justice,” said Adson Nyaga, who read the joint statement on behalf of the residents.

The residents argue that giving Muminji a chance would not only promote equitable representation but also uplift a minority community that has long been sidelined due to its small voting population. 

Nicholas Muturi, another resident, noted that the ward has remained loyal to the Kenya Kwanza government and giving it the UDA ticket could guarantee victory in the by-election.

“We are fully behind the President. If the ticket goes to a Muminji candidate, UDA will win with ease,” said Muturi.

Rael Mururi lamented the persistent development challenges in the area  from chronic water shortages to poor road infrastructure and lack of essential services. She expressed confidence that electing an MP from Muminji would finally give the region a voice to address these issues in Parliament.

As pressure mounts, the UDA party is reportedly working behind the scenes to forge consensus among the eight aspirants seeking the ticket. Sources indicate the candidates will retreat to Naivasha on Friday and Saturday for intense negotiations aimed at producing a single flagbearer.

With the by-election drawing closer and Muminji residents growing bolder in their calls, the party’s final decision could significantly shape not just the race  but the future of political representation in Mbeere North.

Those eyeing the UDA ticket include Konji Kwayo, Embu County Assembly Speaker Josiah Thiriku, former MP Muriuki Njagagua and his brother Dr Murage Njagagua, Leonard Muthende, Ngari Makindu,Dr Dun Mbogo and former Embu County Assembly Speaker Kariuki Mate.

The seat fell vacant following the appointment of Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku who was the area MP. He took the position from former Attorney General Justin Muturi who served in the same capacity before he has was sacked by President Ruto in March 2025.

Speaking during a church service at the African Inland Church (AIC) in Embu Town, Senator Mundigi strongly defended the Kenya Kwanza government’s track record, stating that since President Ruto took office, he has made remarkable strides in reviving the economy despite inheriting a shaky financial foundation.

“Ruto’s government has had to navigate through mountains of debt and high expectations, but it is now delivering. From the previous budget to the current one, we’ve witnessed significant investment in key sectors,” Mundigi told the congregation.

He hailed the Head of State and his deputy Prof Kithure Kindiki for implementing bold economic reforms and maintaining momentum on major development programs across the country. He noted that the upcoming disbursement of KSh 415 billion to counties marks a decisive moment for devolution, saying it will help revive stalled projects and drive localized growth.

On healthcare, Mundigi assured Kenyans that the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHA) is operational and poised for efficiency. He called on Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale to fast-track necessary tweaks to ensure seamless service delivery to citizens.

The senator further applauded the ongoing engagement between the government and health workers, which he said had led to increased funding and improved operations in the sector. He also recognized the National Employment Authority (NEA) for opening up overseas job opportunities for Kenyan youth, describing it as a strategic solution to both unemployment and economic expansion.

However, the senator issued a stern caution on recent anti-government protests, particularly in Embu and other Mount Kenya towns. While acknowledging that the right to protest is constitutional, he condemned violence and destruction, warning that such actions only hurt local businesses and reverse progress.

“Let’s protest with purpose, not with stones and fire. We’re only burning our future,” he said.

Addressing the Mount Kenya region directly, Senator Mundigi warned against political isolation and falling prey to divisive politics.

“Every other region is cooperating with the Kenya Kwanza administration. If Mount Kenya chooses to fight the government, we risk being left behind on the development agenda,” he cautioned.

He dismissed those calling for rebellion as “misleaders who thrive on chaos,” and delivered a sharp rebuke to Gen Z protesters:

“Stop allowing yourselves to be used by self-serving politicians. The chaos you create today will haunt your future.”said Mundigi.

 The Wiper Patriotic Front MP said he further demanded for a rural electrification programme to be installed in various villages in his constituency to let the region benefit enormously from development projects and government appointments in equal measure with other regions as part of the deal.

Speaking during a retirement party of a Primary School headteacher, Justus Musyimi Ngau, at Kaikungu village, Migwani Sub County in his constituency, Nguna said he had no apologies to make for choosing to embrace and have a cordial working relationship with Ruto and his Kenya Kwanza administration towards achieving life-changing and transformative programmes for the region he represents.

“I thank the President for committing himself fully in ensuring the completion of the crucial road that stalled at Kwa-Siku in my constituency. A Chinese contractor is setting up a camp at Kathumulani area in Migwani Sub County for the commencement of the works on the Kibwezi-Kitui-Migwani-Mbondoni road that connects Nairobi-Thika-Mwingi-Garrissa road at Mbondoni. In addition, Sh468 million has been allocated for the rural electrification programme in my constituency. I am aware, it is the responsibility of the government to do developments in all parts of the country, but lobbying is also part of the game,” the second term MP said.  

He said it was an open secret that sometime back he held talks with the President where they discussed development issues and agreed to partner on significant matters in making people’s lives better.

Nguna said his deal with Ruto should not be construed to mean he has shifted his political allegiance from Wiper to UDA. “Those jittery about my working deal with Kenya Kwanza should relax. I am in Wiper to stay. Even if the party will hold parliamentary nominations in 2027, I will participate and vow I will emerge the winner against all other party aspirants. I know how to play my cards,” he said.

The MP unconditionally said nothing will stop him from meeting the President and charting a way forward for the semi-arid region to achieve maximum benefits of shared resources. He said there is strength and unity of purpose for people to chart a united front and coalesce together for political, social and economic growth in their respective zones.

Nguna called on leaders across the political divide to discard politics of witch-hunt, hatred and bickering and focus on the region’s shared development agenda. “Our people have well-defined priorities, and these will serve as the foundation of our efforts to uplift Kitui and Ukambani at large. It is time for development,” the MP said.

He said key priorities identified included improving roads, enhancing access to clean water, advancing education, expanding electrification, ensuring affordable housing, and boosting progress across critical sectors.

Nguna sought to explain that his desire and vision were primarily to see all county leaders, irrespective of political affiliation, come together at one table to forge a shared common goal for the benefit of the community populace.

“We need to achieve our collective dream of having all our regional leaders irrespective of parties of affiliation come together at a negotiating table to chart a common agenda for our people” the MP said.

Speaker Kevin Katisya thanked the president for initiating development projects in Kitui county assuring him that he also supports Governor Dr Julius Malombe in his manifesto delivery agenda.

"Article 6 of the constitution says that we the county government should work closely with the national government; in consultation and cooperation", said the speaker who is also a lawyer.

Katisya further lauded CS Mvurya for implementing the construction stadium project which he said was in line with articles 199 and 190 of the constitution where the national government is mandated to support counties in the spirit of fostering devolution.

In order to further boost the local economies, the government pledged to revamp Kitui airstrip and road networks as well as set up a State Lodge in Kitui Town.

The violent confrontation between rival camps was aimed at removing the Majority Party Leader Harrison Maluki from his seat. Wiper Patriotic Front is the majority party.

Those against MCA Maluki wanted to a new Majority leader to be John Munyoki. Speaker Kevin Katisya acknowledged receiving a letter on the change of the Majority leadership on Monday. He promised to consult with the Assembly Legal Officer on how to handle the looming changes.

In the meantime, neither Maluki not Munyoki occupied the contested seat during the session. Speaker Katisya will give a ruling on who will be recognized as majority leader during the next Assembly session on Wednesday.

Later, Governor Malombe made the much awaited State of the county address as his audience followed him with undivided attention.

The demonstrators  accused the government of unfairly targeting their MP, who was arrested on Monday in connection with recent political unrest. The arrest has sparked outrage among his supporters, who believe he is being victimized for aligning with a rival political faction. 

“Our MP is innocent! We will not sit and watch as he is persecuted for speaking out. Let them release him unconditionally,” shouted one protester amid cheers from the gathered crowd.

Police officers were deployed heavily across the town to disperse the crowd and prevent further escalation. Teargas was lobbed in some areas to scatter groups that had started barricading roads.

By mid-morning, Embu’s central business district resembled a ghost town, with public transport disrupted and shops tightly shut. Residents say the town has not witnessed such tension in recent years.

Leaders allied to Mukunji have also condemned the arrest and called for calm as efforts to secure his release continue. However, demonstrators vowed to maintain pressure until the MP is freed.

The situation remains tense as residents await the next course of action from authorities.

Addressing the mass media in Embu town, a section of concerned locals led by  Juma Kalimoni condemned what they termed as a politically motivated arrest, saying the MP was being punished for championing the voice of the people.

“We demand the immediate release of our MP. He has committed no crime. This is pure political intimidation, and we shall not rest until he is free,” declared Kalimoni, warning of mass protests if the MP is not released.

The residents claimed that MP Mukunji’s arrest was a deliberate move to silence dissenting voices and frustrate his political ambitions ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial race in Embu county.

Kelvin Gachima, another resident accused the state of weaponizing the law to curtail Mukunji's growing influence.

“The allegations against him are fabricated. Mukunji is not in government. He is being targeted simply because he stands for truth and has declared interest in the Embu governor seat come 2027 and his association with former DP Rigathi Gachagua. If that is  his crime, then it's democracy that is  on trial,” Gachima said.

Joseph Thuku, a resident termed the arrest as a betrayal to the over 100,000 voters who entrusted Mukunji with the mandate to represent them in Parliament.

“If he has done anything wrong, take him to court. Otherwise, set him free. We will not allow political games to override the will of the people,” said Thuku.

The residents revealed that the news of Mukunji’s alleged arrest was confirmed to them by his lawyer, Advocate Ndegwa Njiru. They insisted that unless the government acts swiftly to release the MP, they will mobilize countywide protests in solidarity with their leader.

As the pressure mounts, all eyes are now on the authorities to provide clarity on the MP’s whereabouts and the circumstances surrounding his alleged arrest.

MCAs Muthengi Ndagara (Tharaka), Bernard Munyasya(Mwingi Central), Harrison Maluki (Migwani) Antony Musyoka (Kiomo-Kyethani) and Kanyangi legislator Boniface Katula are others in trouble with Kalonzo led party.

Still, former Musyi FM presenter Jackline Kalenga who is nominated MCA has received a show cause letter as well as her nominated colleague Priscilla Makumi, among others we could not independently verify before press time.

The WPF accuses its Machakos and Kitui County Speakers of working with the ruling UDA party.

In an interview with the press, the Wiper Secretary General Shakila Abdalla said that   the party will not entertain errant members as it is focused on producing the sixth President of Kenya. "They went against the party and were subjected against the disciplinary committee. Having been fined, they defied. They were given grace period to comply. Instead, they took the party to court and it defeated them. We have expelled them" she said without giving further explanation.

Senator Shakila Abdalla further intimated that the fate of Kitui County Speaker Kevin Katisya and his Machakos counterpart Anne Kiusya is in the offing. "They should go and show cause why they are Wiper members and working with UDA", she said.

By Wiper having rebranded to attract Gen Z voters ahead of 2027 general elections, acquiring a new name is part of that strategy to win elections. 

Party Leader Dr Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, SC, vied as a deputy presidential candidate in 2013 and 2017 elections when ODM leader Raila Odinga was the coalition's flag bearer. Both bids were unsuccessful.