Machakos Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. Denies Joining UDA Machakos Governor Alfred Mutula Kilonzo Jr. has dismissed reports that he has defected from the Wiper Democratic Movement (WDM) to join the United Democratic Alliance (UDA). The rumors had circulated widely, fueling speculation that the governor was poised to join Deputy President William Ruto’s camp ahead of the 2022 general elections. In a statement issued on Saturday, Mutula Jr. refuted the claims as baseless and aimed at undermining his leadership. He emphasized that he remains firmly committed to WDM and supports former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka’s bid for the presidency. “I want to categorically state that I have not joined UDA, and I have no intention of doing so. These reports are malicious and intended to distract me from my work as the governor of Machakos,” Mutula Jr. said. The governor accused his political opponents of spreading falsehoods to taint his reputation and create division within his party. He urged his supporters to remain steadfast and ignore the rumors. “I am focused on delivering on my mandate to the people of Machakos. Our agenda is clear, and we will not be deterred by cheap propaganda,” Mutula Jr. added. The reports of Mutula Jr.’s alleged defection had gained traction on social media, with some speculating that he could be the governor candidate for UDA in the Machakos gubernatorial race. However, the governor’s swift denial has put an end to such speculation. Mutula Jr.’s statement sends a clear message that he intends to remain a key figure within the Wiper party and its One Kenya Alliance (OKA) coalition. The governor’s position is expected to reassure his supporters and bolster the morale of the party ahead of the upcoming elections.Macquarie Invests in Hydro Rein to Accelerate Industrial DecarbonizationMacquarie Invests in Hydro Rein to Accelerate Industrial Decarbonization Macquarie Asset Management (Macquarie) has finalized its $332 million investment in Hydro Rein, a leading provider of renewable energy to the industrial sector. The investment, announced in October 2023, will be led by Macquarie’s Green Energy and Climate Opportunities Fund. Hydro Rein has a gross capacity of 8.4 GW under development in its core markets in the Nordic countries and Brazil. The company has formed strong industry partnerships, including long-term power purchase agreements totaling 5.3 TWh per year. Macquarie’s investment will support Hydro Rein’s pipeline of projects and contribute to Hydro’s goal of accelerating the growth of low-carbon aluminum production and decarbonizing hard-to-abate industries. Mark Dooley, Global Head of Green Investments at Macquarie Asset Management, emphasized the importance of decarbonizing industrial materials like aluminum in the energy transition. He expressed excitement about collaborating with Hydro to unlock a greener future for the industry and its communities. Eivind Kallevik, President and CEO of Hydro, said the transaction marks the next phase of the company’s renewable energy partnership with Macquarie Asset Management. He noted Hydro Rein’s strong growth agenda and its role in providing the energy needed to reduce CO2 emissions. The investment builds on the existing relationship between Macquarie and Hydro, which have collaborated on various projects since 2017. Together, they have developed 1.3 GW of renewable energy capacity, including wind projects in the Nordic countries and Brazil. About Hydro Rein Hydro Rein, established in 2021, provides renewable energy solutions to the industrial sector. With a focus on decarbonization, the company offers tailored solutions to overcome energy transition challenges. Hydro Rein has a diversified portfolio of over 60 renewable energy and energy efficiency projects under development in the Nordic countries and Brazil. It has signed long-term contracts for a production of 5.3 TWh per year and has a gross capacity of 8.4 GW.Former Machakos Governor, Alfred Mutula, has dismissed reports that he is set to join the United Democratic Alliance (UDA). Mutula, who is currently serving as the Chairman of the Council of Governors, said that he is focused on his role at the council and has no plans to leave his current party, the Wiper Democratic Movement (WDM). “I have been hearing these rumors for some time now, but I want to state categorically that I am not leaving Wiper. I am committed to my party and to the people of Machakos,” Mutula said. Mutula’s remarks come amid reports that he was set to join UDA, which is led by Deputy President William Ruto. Ruto has been making inroads in Ukambani, and has already won over several key leaders from the region, including former Machakos Senator, Johnstone Muthama. However, Mutula said that he is not interested in joining UDA, and that he believes that Wiper is the best party to represent the interests of the people of Ukambani. “Wiper is a strong and vibrant party, and we are committed to fighting for the rights of our people. We have a clear agenda for the region, and we are confident that we can deliver on our promises,” Mutula said. Mutula’s decision to remain in Wiper is a blow to Ruto’s efforts to consolidate support in Ukambani. Ruto has been keen to win over the region, which is considered to be a swing vote in the upcoming elections. However, Mutula’s decision to remain in Wiper suggests that Ruto may have a tough time winning over the region, which is considered to be a stronghold of the Wiper party.