By:Peter John

Kitui County is alive with speculation over Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka’s perceived political maneuvers ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial race.

At the heart of this growing debate is Women Representative Dr. Irene Kasalu, whose increasing prominence within Wiper and close association with Kalonzo have sparked talk that she may be his preferred candidate to succeed Governor Julius Malombe.

Her steady political rise, coupled with a visible endorsement pattern that mirrors Kalonzo’s past support for Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti, suggests a carefully crafted strategy to propel yet another woman leader into a key regional position.

Dr. Kasalu’s presence alongside Kalonzo at major county and national events has not gone unnoticed.

Political observers argue that Kalonzo’s preference for loyalists with a track record of grassroots impact positions Kasalu as a natural successor to Wiper’s leadership in Kitui.

Unlike many of her potential rivals, she has maintained strong public engagement beyond election seasons, spearheading development initiatives that have earned her widespread recognition.

Her sanitary towers project has empowered thousands of schoolgirls, while her focus on women and youth economic empowerment, education, and healthcare has reinforced her reputation as a leader in touch with the realities of her constituents.

Kalonzo’s trust in women leaders is evident in his political strategy, having successfully backed Wavinya Ndeti in 2022.

Now, with Kitui’s gubernatorial race slowly taking shape, his alignment with Kasalu could be a decisive factor in shaping the county’s political future.

Within the Wiper Party, her growing influence has already won the approval of key leaders, with MPs and MCAs lauding her unwavering commitment to development.

Mwingi West MP Charles Nguna has praised her leadership, noting her ability to deliver tangible results, while Kitui South MP Racheal Kaki has described her as a visionary whose policy focus on economic empowerment and social welfare makes her a formidable contender.

“Dr. Kasalu has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the people of Kitui. She has stood with the community through thick and thin, ensuring that women and youth are at the center of development,” said Hon. Charles Nguna, Mwingi West MP.

Kitui East MP Nimrod Mbai echoed similar sentiments, stating, “Kasalu has been a leader who delivers. Her development record speaks for itself, and she has what it takes to lead Kitui County to prosperity.”

Hon. Racheal Kaki, the Kitui South MP, emphasized the importance of women in leadership, saying, “Kitui needs a visionary leader like Dr. Kasalu. Her focus on education, economic empowerment, and healthcare makes her the right candidate to take over the county’s leadership in 2027.”

As speculation mounts over Kalonzo’s potential endorsement, the political landscape in Kitui is becoming increasingly defined by the dynamics of his influence.

While Dr. Kasalu’s record and public engagement distinguish her as a strong candidate, the extent to which Kalonzo’s backing translates into electoral success will depend on how she consolidates support across various county factions.

With other contenders, including Kitui Central MP Makali Mulu, Senator Kiio Wambua, and former Governor Charity Ngilu, eyeing the seat, the battle for Kitui’s leadership is set to intensify.

However, if Kalonzo officially throws his weight behind Kasalu, it could set the stage for a major political realignment, solidifying her place as the frontrunner for Kitui’s top seat.