Political temperatures in Kitui East are steadily rising after the area Member of Parliament, Hon. Nimrod Mbai, launched a scathing attack on former MP and Ambassador Kiema Kilonzo over the weekend.
Speaking at a public event, MP Mbai boldly declared his readiness to face Kiema Kilonzo in the 2027 parliamentary race. He further alleged that Ambassador Kiema Kilonzo was involved in the controversial sale of coal in Mutito and vowed to mobilize residents to “claim their share” from Kilonzo.
Mbai’s remarks sparked sharp reactions across the constituency, particularly from residents of Mutito, Kaliku, Sombe, Chuluni, and Voo-Nyamatu. Many have dismissed the MP’s claims as baseless propaganda meant to divert attention from what they describe as his underwhelming performance in office.
“The MP should stop manufacturing lies and focus on delivering development to the people, just as Kiema Kilonzo did during his tenure as Mutito MP,” said one resident. Others noted that if coal had indeed been mined and sold in Kitui East, it would be a matter of national attention — which has not been the case.
The kitui East people saw tangible development during Kiema’s tenure and that’s why they are calling him to come back and rescue them.
Community members also warned Mbai against provoking Kiema Kilonzo with threats or insinuations of violence. “He [Mbai] He has no monopoly of threats Kiema can deal with him mundu ku mundu… He should know that Kiema is not new to political battles — he is seasoned and knows the game well,” a local elder remarked.
The current standoff appears to stem from growing speculation that the Wiper Party is positioning Kiema Kilonzo for a political comeback in Kitui East. While Ambassador Kilonzo has not publicly declared his intention to run, sources indicate there is strong grassroots support pushing him to reclaim the seat, citing lack of tangible development under Mbai’s leadership.
Hon. Mbai, however, remains defiant, insisting that he is ready for any political showdown in 2027. “Let Wiper bring Kiema, I am ready,” he said.
Efforts to reach Ambassador Kiema Kilonzo for a comment were unsuccessful by the time of publishing this story.
As the political dust begins to swirl in Kitui East, all eyes are now on whether Kiema Kilonzo will bow to public pressure and throw his hat back into the ring.
