Wamuzi News Ke
In a move that jolts political dynamics in Kitui County, Mwingi West MP Charles Nguna has formally departed the Wiper party and defected to the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
The development marks a striking reversal of political alignment just months before the heated 2027 general elections.Nguna—widely known by his initials “CNN”—made the announcement Saturday afternoon at a gathering in his constituency, declaring that he could no longer align with Wiper’s agenda, which he says increasingly “sidelines development in favor of politics.”
“I have resolved to move my mandate to UDA so I can better serve my people without partisan constraints,” Nguna told supporters and party officials at the rally.
Reactions and Tensions in Wiper.
The defection is a major blow to Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, especially in Ukambani where the party has long held sway. Sources say internal rifts over alliances with other parties and arrangements with the Kenya Kwanza coalition contributed to Nguna’s departure.
Some insiders point to earlier rumors: Nguna had already skipped key Wiper rallies, prompting public admonishment from Kalonzo, who publicly warned him against playing into the hands of President Ruto. Wiper leaders have not publicly responded to Nguna’s exit as of this writing, but backroom meetings have reportedly commenced to shore up support in the area and prevent further defections.
Political Ramifications: Mwingi West and Beyond.
Vote arithmetic shift: Nguna’s move could fracture opposition support in Kitui, benefitting UDA in a key battleground region.Signal of broader drift: Analysts suggest Nguna is not alone—if other legislators follow, Wiper could hemorrhage significant influence.
Coalition recalibration: The Kenya Kwanza alliance may leverage the defection to claim momentum and legitimacy in traditionally opposition territory.Messaging challenge: Nguna must now justify the switch to constituents who elected him on a Wiper ticket.
Some observers view this as a bold political gamble: if UDA fails to deliver, Nguna’s support base may question his fidelity. For now, he is being welcomed in ruling party circles as a major coup.
