Leaders from the Wiper Democratic Movement have accused President William Ruto of showing blatant disrespect toward the Kamba community and their political leader, Kalonzo Musyoka. Speaking during the unveiling of Wiper’s candidate for the Mumbuni North by-election, the leaders expressed anger and disappointment, claiming that the president’s words and actions have continuously undermined the dignity of the Kamba people.
Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti led the charge, saying that the community has remained calm despite enduring repeated insults. She emphasized that Kalonzo’s humility should not be mistaken for weakness and urged the president to accord him the respect he deserves. “We have been silent for too long, but respect must go both ways,” she declared, adding that the Kamba community would no longer tolerate being treated with contempt.
Former Machakos Town MP Victor Munyaka echoed the sentiments, accusing President Ruto of neglecting the Ukambani region despite making numerous promises. Munyaka cited an instance during last year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kitui, where Ruto used the Kikamba phrase “vomwe na vetwe,” loosely translated to “us and them.” According to Munyaka, the phrase implied division and a lack of respect toward the Kamba community. “We are God-fearing people, not thieves, and we demand respect like any other Kenyans,” he asserted.
Other Wiper leaders expressed concern that the government has sidelined Ukambani in development projects since Ruto took office. They contrasted this with his frequent visits and initiatives in other regions, saying the Kamba people have been deliberately left out of major national plans. The leaders urged the president to demonstrate fairness and inclusivity in his leadership.
As the by-election in Mumbuni North approaches, the leaders said the vote would serve as a clear message of defiance against political marginalization. Makueni MP Thaddeus Nzambia encouraged voters to use the ballot to affirm the community’s pride and unity, saying, “Let this election show that the Kamba people cannot be ignored or disrespected.”
The accusations come amid heightened political tensions, with many observers warning that careless remarks could reignite ethnic divisions. The State House has not yet issued a response, though government officials have in the past dismissed claims of ethnic bias, pointing to various ongoing development projects in Ukambani.
For now, Wiper leaders insist their call is not merely about politics but about respect, recognition, and equality for their people—a stand they say will shape the community’s political direction in the coming years.
Image by Citizen Digital
