TUKO.co.ke journalist Harry Ivan Mboto has over three years of experience reporting on politics and current affairs in Kenya

Tension brewed in Machakos on Sunday, June 15, as Governor Wavinya Ndeti launched a scathing attack on President William Ruto.

Wavinya called out the president and his close allies, accusing them of meddling in the county's internal affairs.

Speaking during a church service at AIC Baraka in Mumbuni, Machakos Town, Wavinya said attempts by the president’s associates to interfere with her administration would not be tolerated.

She warned that the people of Ukambani would not welcome Ruto with respect if the interference continued.

"You are coming to Ukambani. If you want us to welcome you with respect, please tell your people to stop disturbing us. The era of meddling with our affairs has come to an end. We are tired," she declared, drawing applause from the congregation.

Wavinya also called for mutual respect between national and county governments, urging the president to offer her the same support and stability she has extended to his leadership.

"The way we have given you stability to run Kenya and other counties is the same way I expect you to give me the stability to work for the people of Machakos. The same people I’m serving in Machakos are the same you are serving. You and I are elected. You should not stoop that low," she said.

The governor argued that Ruto’s biggest weakness lay in the people surrounding him, describing them as reckless and self-serving individuals who did not care about the president’s image or leadership legacy.

"Your biggest problem, your excellency, let me tell you the truth, is these people around you. They don't even care about you. They just carelessly do things. Most of them are just here to make money. No wonder each and every day they keep making grave mistakes that reduce your appeal among Kenyans. They are not the ones who will be responsible. It is you, Ruto, who will be answerable to Kenyans," she cautioned.

In a direct swipe at individuals she said were undermining her leadership, Wavinya singled out Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua, her predecessor.

She accused him, among others, of political interference and attempts to destabilise her administration.

Wavinya linked the ongoing political friction to her firm support for Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka. She praised Kalonzo for respecting her leadership and standing out as a trustworthy and principled leader.

"Kalonzo has given me the respect I deserve. He is a man of integrity, with no questionable deeds, and he is the only man Kenyans can trust at the moment," she said.

"I know you are disturbing me because I support Kalonzo. But I want to tell you, and you can take it to the bank. I will be loyal to him," she added.

Wavinya's remarks follow similar concerns by Embu governor Cecily Mbarire, who decried alleged interference by senior national government officials.

She accused unnamed officers from Nairobi of holding secret night meetings aimed at weakening her leadership and destabilising the unity of elected leaders in the county.

Mbarire, who also chairs the ruling UDA party, expressed frustration over what she saw as disrespect and betrayal from individuals within the same government, which she had loyally supported.

Source: TUKO.co.ke