Wiper condemns attack on Kitui MCA by 'goons linked to' MP Nimrod Mbai

The Wiper party has strongly condemned a violent assault on Kitui MCA Jacinta Mwoni as a targeted attack rooted in gender-based political violence.

The attack, allegedly carried out by "goons linked to" Kitui East MP Nimrod Mbai, occurred after Mwoni expressed political support for Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka at a funeral service.

“The violent assault on is not just a criminal act, it is a disgusting display of brute misogyny and political thuggery,” Wiper said in a statement by Secretary General Shakila Abdalla on Wednesday.

"She was attacked simply because she dared to express political support for Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka at a funeral. That's it. A woman spoke, and men responded with violence."

SG Abdalla emphasized the deliberate nature of the assault as one that wasn’t an accident but targeted and deeply political.

"This wasn't an accident. It wasn't random. It was targeted, deliberate, and deeply political," read the statement.

He further censured attacks against women in leadership positions, noting that denying women the right to air their sentiments is a violation on the right to speech.

"It is one more case in a long list of attacks on women in leadership. A warning to women: speak out, and we will hurt you. We see it. And we are calling it out for what it is, gender-based violence in politics, carried out by cowards who fear women with opinions," the statement added.

"Article 33 protects every Kenyan's right to speak. Article 38 guarantees the right to make political choices. Hon. Mwoni broke no law. She exercised her rights. The men who attacked her broke the law."

SG Abdalla called for action to be taken against MP Mbai, accusing him of using his men to intimidate MCA Mwoni.

"He did not condemn the assault. His message was clear: silence this woman by force. Hon. Mbai must be named and shamed. This is not leadership, it is thuggery in a suit.”