Chaos marred the end of the Kamba delegates’ visit to State House after the Sh30 million President William Ruto had allocated for distribution among 2,000 attendees fell short. Sources reveal that trouble began when Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua’s aides, strategically positioned, took control of the disbursement process. Allegedly, Mutua had instructed them to withhold at least a quarter of the funds and deliver it to his parked car.
When the money ran out, leaving hundreds empty-handed, Mwala MP Vincent Musyoka approached State House Comptroller Katoo Metito for additional funds—only to be told that only Ruto could authorize further disbursements. An infuriated Ruto reportedly erupted, shouting that the Kamba delegation’s visit was the “most expensive yet least beneficial,” as he doubted he would gain any political support from Ukambani. Despite his anger, he released an additional Sh7 million.
At the event, MPs and MCAs reportedly received Sh50,000 each, while others got Sh10,000. Catering was handled by Sarova Stanley. Some MCAs were allegedly caught in line for the smaller payout, sparking further discontent.
Blame Game Over Ruto’s Postponed Ukambani Tours
A fierce blame game has erupted between allies of Mutua and Musyoka over who is responsible for Ruto’s twice-postponed tours of Ukambani. Musyoka, UDA’s national organizing secretary, accuses Mutua of sabotaging the events, claiming potential attendees were put off by Mutua’s “arrogance and pride.”
Mutua, however, shifts blame to Musyoka, arguing that as the senior-most UDA official in the region, he should have spearheaded preparations. Observers, however, believe both are deflecting responsibility—neither was willing to spend personal funds to mobilize crowds for Ruto, unlike leaders in Nyanza and Mt. Kenya, where state resources and powerful figures like CS John Mbadi and DP Kindiki Kithure ensured massive turnouts.
Underlying Tensions and Demotivated Leaders
Mutua is said to still resent his demotion from Foreign Affairs to Labour—a ministry insiders call a “hardship posting.” Similarly, Musyoka reportedly remains bitter after losing his lucrative role as chair of Parliament’s Energy Committee, where he had influence over multi-million-shilling deals. Their lack of enthusiasm in mobilizing for Ruto is seen as a key factor in the failed tours.
Yet, some argue that money isn’t the real issue—Ukambani’s hostility toward Ruto is. Intelligence reports allegedly warned that locals might take cash handouts but skip rallies, leaving the president speaking to empty grounds. In Kitui, fears of heckling were particularly high, given the county’s history of confrontational politics.
Even Ruto’s recent Embu tour turned awkward when crowds chanted “uwongo! uwongo!” (lies!) as he announced an Sh800 million water project.
Political Peril for Ruto’s Allies in Ukambani
While some assume local UDA leaders like Mwengi Mutuse, Nimrod Mbai, and CS Rebecca Miano are disappointed by the canceled tours, others suggest they’re relieved. In Ukambani—a stronghold of opposition leader Kalonzo Musyoka—being seen with Ruto is political suicide.
Rumors swirl that some MPs considered faking illness or even a relative’s death to avoid attending Ruto’s events, fearing backlash from constituents.
Stalled Projects and Broken Promises
Kambas remain skeptical of Ruto’s pledges, especially regarding projects like Konza Technopolis and Thwake Dam—both initiated under Kibaki. Many believe Ruto should only visit to inaugurate completed projects, not make empty promises.
A Fractured Leadership
Mutua and Musyoka’s strained relationship further complicates Ruto’s plans. Additionally, local UDA MPs accuse Musyoka of diverting electricity projects to his Mwala constituency during his tenure as Energy Committee chair.
To make matters worse, some Kambas were reportedly waiting to confront Ruto over his past derogatory remarks referring to them as “ndengu farmers.”
With deep-seated resentment, a lack of cohesive leadership, and dwindling trust in government promises, Ruto’s path to winning over Ukambani remains fraught with challenges.
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