The Wiper Party ticket is set to become one of the most sought-after political tickets in Ukambani, especially now that Kalonzo Musyoka is vying for the presidency. That is why many aspirants are willing to bet their last coin for it and others exploring other political vehicles, knowing that securing the Wiper ticket will be highly competitive.

Recently Kitui Woman Representative Dr. Irene Kasalu has declared that she is ready to pursue the Wiper Party gubernatorial ticket through either nominations or negotiations, provided the process is driven by the party leadership in consultation with local leaders and the people of Kitui.

“Whether it’s by the ballot or through negotiations, I am ready for whichever path the Wiper Party takes, as long as our local leadership and community are at the table. I have no doubt that I will secure the ticket and proudly fly the Wiper flag as your next Governor of Kitui,” she said.

At just 45 years old, Kasalu has established herself as one of the county’s most formidable political figures. Within Wiper, she is expected to battle seasoned politicians, including Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua (55) and Kitui Central MP Dr. Makali Mulu (62) for the party ticket. If successful, she is likely to face former Governor Charity Ngilu (82), who is expected to contest on the Narc Party ticket.

Her age has become a frequent subject of political debate, with some influential figures arguing that she is still too young to lead the county.Kasalu dismissed that argument during a rally at Nuu Market, drawing loud cheers from women and young people.

“Where were they when they were my age so that they can be competing with me now? Leadership is not a council of elders where age is the qualification. Leadership is about vision,” she declared.

Kasalu’s campaign has been built around youth and women empowerment, a message that continues to attract enthusiastic grassroots support across Kitui. Her growing movement has unsettled sections of the political establishment, who view her rising popularity as a challenge to the status quo.

She recently urged young people to contest elective seats across the county, arguing that they have the greatest stake in the county’s future because they will live longest with today’s decisions.

The remarks sparked criticism from some political quarters, who accused her of promoting a generational divide claims her supporters reject, saying she is simply encouraging greater youth participation in leadership.While many of her rivals spend significant time in Nairobi, Kasalu has maintained an aggressive grassroots campaign, traversing villages across Kitui alongside thousands of women as she advances her message of economic empowerment, inclusive leadership and generational renewal.

With the race for the Wiper Party ticket gathering momentum, Kasalu is increasingly positioning herself not only as a contender but as a candidate determined to reshape the future of Kitui politics.