Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr has opened up about being asked to have his agents double as presidential agents for Azimio la Umoja during the 2022 general election. The revelation came amid ongoing debates about whether the coalition properly funded or deployed agents for Raila Odinga’s presidential bid.
Mutula shared his thoughts in a statement that spread widely on social media. He said the raging debate on funds for Azimio presidential agents prompted him to speak. On election day, he was requested to marshal his own agents—there for his gubernatorial race—to also handle presidential duties. That meant the same people signed Form 34A for both levels. In Makueni, there were no separate dedicated agents for the presidential vote, according to him.
Agents play a key role in Kenyan elections. They watch polling stations, check voter lists, and sign results forms before tallying. For presidential races, each candidate needs agents at every station. Form 34A, the polling station result, requires their signature. Without it, issues can arise in disputes. In 2022, Azimio faced questions about agent coverage after losing to William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza.
Mutula’s comments highlight challenges some areas faced. Makueni voted strongly for Azimio and Raila, but coordinating agents across levels proved tricky. Doubling up meant one person handled multiple roles. Mutula did not blame anyone directly. He just shared his experience as part of the wider talk.
The debate flared up recently in political circles. Some former Azimio figures claimed poor agent deployment contributed to the loss. Others defended the effort, saying funds went out but logistics fell short in places. Mutula’s story adds a county-level view, showing how things worked on the ground.
As governor since 2022, Mutula stays active in national matters. He often speaks on devolution and party issues. His father, the late Mutula Kilonzo, was a prominent lawyer and senator. The younger Mutula won Makueni easily that year, part of Azimio’s strong showing in the Ukambani region.
Online, reactions came quick. Some praised Mutula for honesty, saying it explains past complaints. Others wondered why it surfaced now, years later. A few tied it to current ODM shifts, like cooperation with the government. Comments on news pages mixed support and questions.
Election agents remain a hot topic in Kenya. The 2022 vote saw tight races and court challenges over results. Azimio petitioned the Supreme Court but lost. Agent presence featured in arguments then. Recent talks revisit those points as parties prepare for future polls.
Mutula has not said more since the statement. He focuses on Makueni projects, like water and roads. But his words keep the conversation going among politicians and voters.
In counties, leaders remember 2022 logistics. Funding agents costs money for transport, food, and pay. Coalitions like Azimio had many races to cover. Doubling agents helped in spots but risked overload.
This glimpse into one county shows election complexities. Agents ensure fairness, but getting them everywhere takes planning. Mutula’s account reminds folks of that reality.
As 2027 nears far off, parties might learn from it. Better coordination could matter next time. For now, the debate continues quietly in chats and posts.
