This archive report was first published on 24 June 2020.
Former Machakos Senator Johnstone Muthama has defied the Wiper Party, stating that he will not be intimidated into following a political cause he does not believe in. This comes just a day after the party asked him to show cause in the next fourteen days over his recent support for Deputy President William Ruto's 2022 presidential bid.
Speaking to the press, Muthama reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring DP Ruto becomes the 5th President of the Republic of Kenya. 'I am still working to ensure DP William Ruto becomes the 5th president of the Republic of Kenya,' he said.
Muthama's decision has been informed by his deep thought on the political future of the Kamba community. He alleged that his party leader, Kalonzo Musyoka, had dropped his presidential ambition for another candidate.
Wiper Party chairperson Chirau Ali Mwakwere had put the party leader on notice for gross misconduct, including insubordination of the party leader and the party's political position. 'He is off track and is doing things the party cannot stomach. No one has actually given him that role of speaking on behalf of the party,' Mwakwere said.
The party statement also detailed why the veteran politician was supposed to face the disciplinary committee in person. Muthama has been in the bad books of the party since late last year, with a section of Wiper leaders demanding his exit. He is also accused of failing to obey the rules of the party as well as attempting to split the Kamba community.
According to Mwakwere, Muthama has for the last six months made public sentiments that were not linked to the party nor had the party leader's approval. 'Everything that he has said to the public for that period was not official and should be deleted and done away with,' Mwakwere said.
Wiper deputy party leader Farah Maalim stated that the provisions of the party must be respected irrespective of the position held by any leader. 'Indiscipline will not be tolerated in the party. We are disappointed in his behavior,' Maalim said.
The current move by the party comes barely a month after Jubilee Party held a disciplinary hearing against perceived party dissidents, which saw nominated senators subjected to public grilling.
