Ileli Blasts Ruto’s Attack on Kalonzo, Terms It Insult to Kamba Community

Kitui Central politician Crispus Ileli has come out guns blazing against President William Ruto’s remarks during the Mashujaa Day celebrations in which he appeared to disrespect the Wiper Patriotic Front party leader Kalonzo Musyoka. 

While appearing to dismiss the Wiper boss during his off the cuff speech at Ithookwe stadium, president Ruto took a jibe at Kalonzo's “vomwe vetwe” (we are together) slogan, something that was immediately taken as an insult to the community and its kingpin.

Ileli who is popularly known as Mwene Mavati  said it was regrettable that the Head of State chose to belittle H.E Kalonzo, a respected statesman and the region’s undisputed political kingpin, instead of fostering unity among Kenyans. 

“Mocking Kalonzo is not just mocking a person,  it is mocking the millions of Kambas who look up to him for leadership,” he said.

The youthful politician noted that Kalonzo had earned respect across the country for his humility, experience, and consistent call for peace and national cohesion. 

“Kalonzo has served this nation with dignity for decades. Even his political rivals admit that he carries himself with honour. The President must respect that,” Ileli said.

“What we need now is respect and unity, not ridicule” he added.

Ileli further reminded the President that development projects being rolled out in Ukambani were not a personal favour but a constitutional right. 

“We pay taxes like all other Kenyans. When roads, hospitals or water projects are brought here, they are not handouts, they are our rightful share of the national cake,” Ileli asserted.

He urged the President to focus on delivering services and working with leaders across the political divide instead of attacking those with divergent opinions.