By TCD TEAM
Fresh political tensions have emerged in Kitui County after claims that County Assembly Speaker Katisya Kinengo is using assembly committees to target and silence his perceived political rivals ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Critics allege that Speaker Kinengo has influenced the County Assembly Committee on Agriculture, Water and Irrigation to summon Dr. Stephen Mbaya Kimwele, a move they describe as politically motivated rather than part of the committee’s oversight mandate.
According to supporters of Dr. Mbaya, the summons amount to a witch-hunt aimed at frustrating his growing popularity following his declaration of interest in the Kitui Senate seat. They argue that Dr. Mbaya’s senatorial bid has gained significant momentum across the county, prompting political anxiety among competitors.
The group further claims that Speaker Kinengo, who is also linked to senatorial ambitions, is attempting to use county assembly processes to undermine a potential challenger. They have called on Members of the County Assembly to remain independent and resist any attempts to use oversight committees for political battles.
The allegations have intensified political debate in Kitui, with supporters of Dr. Mbaya insisting that oversight should focus on accountability and service delivery rather than being used to settle political scores. Speaker Kinengo has not publicly responded to the claims.
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