National Liberal Party (NLP) leader Augustus Muli has sharply criticized what he termed the deliberate underdevelopment of the Ukambani region, accusing national leaders of perpetuating poverty politics at the expense of citizens.
Muli has condemned the escalating war of words between President William Ruto and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, saying the two leaders must share responsibility for the region’s stagnation.
“Both have had stints in power. Both must take blame for the deliberate impoverishment of Ukambani,” Muli declared.
The latest political banter was triggered by President Ruto’s remarks on Sunday, where he dismissed Kalonzo’s ability to lead the nation, claiming the Wiper boss had failed to even tarmac the road leading to his Tseikuru home.
The comments sparked a fiery exchange between the two leaders, further deepening divisions in a region long plagued by slow development.
Muli, however, argued that the duel between Ruto and Kalonzo was a distraction from the real issue: the systemic neglect of Ukambani.
He warned that residents could no longer tolerate being used as pawns in national politics.
“Ukambani can no longer endure deliberate impoverishment by national leaders. We must reject the politics of poverty,” he said.
The NLP leader revealed that his party, alongside other like-minded movements, is crafting a people’s coalition aimed at dismantling what he described as “toxic ideologies” advanced by both Ruto and Kalonzo.
“We are building a coalition that will stand with the people, not against them. Ukambani deserves roads, schools, hospitals, and industries—not endless political insults,” Muli emphasized.
Muli says there is a growing frustration among emerging leaders in Ukambani, who feel the region has been sidelined despite its significant electoral weight.
His call for a coalition could mark the beginning of a new political realignment ahead of the next election cycle.
For now, the NLP leader’s message is clear: Ukambani’s patience has worn thin, and the region is demanding tangible development rather than rhetorical battles.
