Chama Cha Uzalendo leader Wavinya Ndeti and Machakos Deputy Governor Bernard Kiala are under pressure to work together to clinch the Machakos governor's seat.
Opinion leaders, residents and some elected leaders say the only way of beating Governor Alfred Mutua is by ensuring there is only one political force challenging him.
Speaking at a church function attended by Kiala and Wavinya in Mwala last Sunday, former Mwala MP Daniel Muoki said having many aspirants for the seat will divide voters.
“If we go to the elections divided, believe you me it will work to the advantage of Mutua, whom we all agree does not deserve another chance at all,” he said.
Muoki, the Wiper chairman in Mwala subcounty, urged Kiala and Wavinya to swallow their pride and work together.
His sentiments were echoed by Wamunyu MCA Kyalo Kyuli and his Ndalani counterpart Stephen Muthuka, who said facing Mutua with a divided opposition will be suicidal.
“Governor Mutua’s prayer is to see both Kiala and Wavinya going their own way because that way, he is sure of facing a week opposition. This is the mistake we should not allow,” Muthuka said.
Acknowledging the suggestions, Kiala told the Star this would only be possible if their political foot soldiers agree.
“Wavinya and I might not have a problem with that, but the question is, will our supporters agree to it? Which side will want to take the deputy position?” he said.
Kiala said it is agreeable that the sole political enemy in 2017 should be Mutua and there is need to work out a formula of a strong opposition.
But sources close to Wavinya who sough anonymity told the Star she is not ready to play second fiddle.
They said Wavinya is not comfortable working with Kiala as her deputy because she fears he might sabotage her if they win.
“Look at what Kiala is doing to Mutua now. Why do you think he might not do the same to Wavinya?” said one of Wavinya’s confidants.
This comes as three Wiper MPs in the county have hinted at forming a third political force to face Mutua.
They are Mavoko MP Patrick Makau, Robbert Mbui (Kathaini) and Peter Mathuki, (nominated on Wiper ticket at the East Africa Legislative Assembly).
MPs Patrick Makau, Robert Mbui and Peter Mathuki say neither Wavinya nor Kiala has the muscles to dethrone Mutua and there is need for a fresh candidate to face him.
“We are asking you to just watch this space from today because we have a strong believe the candidate who can match Mutua is amongst the three of us”, Makau told The Star.