The war of words between Kitui Governor Julius Malombe and County Assembly Speaker Kelvin Kinengo has escalated into an all-out political showdown, deepening the rift between the executive and legislative arms of the county government. What initially began as a constitutional process to impeach Finance Minister Peter Kilonzo Mwikya over corruption allegations—an attempt that ultimately failed—has now snowballed into a fierce personal and political battle.
Kinengo Fires Shots at Malombe
Appearing on a local television station two days ago, Speaker Kinengo launched a scathing attack on Governor Malombe, accusing him of mismanaging county affairs and presiding over a cartel-driven administration that has allegedly squandered public resources.
He further took issue with the governor over the deteriorating state of healthcare services in Kitui, claiming that public hospitals were struggling with a shortage of essential medicines despite the Assembly approving the necessary budget allocations.
Kinengo also dismissed Malombe’s calls for an apology over last year’s budget impasse and the failed impeachment motion against the Finance Minister. He instead turned the tables on the governor, claiming that his election as Speaker was divinely ordained, despite resistance from powerful figures within the county, including Malombe himself.
“I won because I convinced Kitui MCAs to elect me. Many powerful cartels didn’t want my Speaker’s candidature. I don’t fear anyone. Malombe should be told that this is his last term, and this is not his government alone. That’s the truth—I know he doesn’t like me,” a defiant Kinengo declared.
Governor Malombe Hits Back
Governor Malombe, however, did not let Kinengo’s remarks go unanswered. While officiating the unveiling of a 70-bed Little Angels Newborn Unit and Maternity Facility at the Kitui County Referral Hospital yesterday, Malombe dismissed the Speaker’s claims of a healthcare crisis as mere political propaganda. He accused Kinengo of using service delivery issues to score political points rather than engaging in constructive leadership.
“Service delivery is a priority for my administration. The claims about a lack of medicine in Kitui hospitals are misleading and politically motivated. My government is focused on improving healthcare, as seen today with the launch of this new maternity facility,” Malombe said.
The battle between the two leaders is seen as a high-stakes contest that could shape Kitui’s political landscape ahead of the next elections. With Speaker Kinengo openly challenging Malombe’s leadership and the governor standing firm against legislative interference, the stage is set for a prolonged power struggle that could impact governance in the county.
As the rift deepens, Kitui residents are left wondering whether their leaders will focus on service delivery or continue engaging in political theatrics at the expense of development.
