Wiper Party boss Kalonzo Musyoka is increasingly leaning toward Kitui Woman Representative Hon. Dr Irene Kasalu as his preferred candidate for the Kitui gubernatorial seat in 2027, insiders have revealed. Political analysts say that Kasalu’s loyalty, strategic positioning, and consistent support for the party leadership have placed her ahead of other contenders eyeing the same ticket, including incumbent Senator Enoch Wambua and outgoing Kitui Central MP Makali Mulu.
According to trusted sources within the Wiper power corridors, Kasalu has maintained unwavering loyalty to Kalonzo and the party, even during turbulent political moments when other leaders were accused of wavering. Her close working relationship with Kalonzo has earned her what insiders describe as “full confidence and trust”, making her the most comfortable choice for the party leader.
However, the looming political showdown pits Kasalu against former Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu, who is reportedly preparing a powerful comeback under the Narc Party. The big question now is whether Kasalu, backed by the Wiper machinery, can successfully beat Ngilu, a veteran politician known for her aggressive campaigns and ground networks across Kitui. Political observers say the Wiper ticket alone is not enough — “whoever runs must inspire the voters beyond party loyalty.”
The unveiling of Kasalu’s candidature is also expected to trigger political tension within Wiper. Both Senator Enoch Wambua and MP Makali Mulu have silently positioned themselves for the same seat, hoping to be considered as the party flag bearers. The question now is whether they will shelve their ambitions in favour of party unity or bolt out should the ticket be handed to Dr Kasalu.
Reports suggest that Kalonzo is determined to avoid internal fallout, but multiple party insiders warn that a section of Wiper leaders may feel betrayed if the certificate is issued without inclusive consultation. This raises speculation of possible defections, independent candidacies, or even a fractured Wiper vote — a scenario that would hand victory to Charity Ngilu on a silver platter.
The debate has also sparked the popularity test question: between Makali Mulu, Senator Enoch Wambua, and Irene Kasalu — who is the most electable, and who can actually deliver at the ballot? On the ground, Kasalu enjoys significant support among women, youth, and church networks, while Wambua has solid influence in Kitui West and perceived grassroots organizational skills. Makali Mulu retains strong control with elites, especially among professionals in towns and rural voters.
Party strategists argue that the choice must go beyond loyalty, focusing instead on electability and capacity to counter Ngilu’s political muscle. Ngilu remains a household name in Kitui politics, and if she mounts a spirited campaign backed by the national political formation, the Wiper candidate — whoever it is — must be prepared for a bruising battle.
As internal negotiations intensify, all eyes now turn to Kalonzo Musyoka’s next move. Will he declare Kasalu as the official candidate early enough to consolidate support, or will he keep the camps waiting, risking internal rebellion? The party’s future unity rests on how this delicate succession question is handled.
For the people of Kitui, the question remains: in whose hands shall the county be safe? Will it be Irene Kasalu — the loyal party daughter, Charity Ngilu — the battle-hardened political general, Makali Mulu — the economist MP, or Senator Enoch Wambua — the strategic grassroots mobilizer? The answer will shape the 2027 political landscape long before the first ballot is cast.
