Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has clarified his recent reference to President William Ruto as his "brother", saying the description should not be interpreted as support for the President or his administration. Kalonzo made the remarks during a press briefing after visiting activist Collins Odhiambo at Life Care Hospital, where he was accompanied by several opposition leaders, including DAP-K's Eugene Wamalwa. He emphasized that his use of the term was based on the Christian understanding of Kenyans as brothers.
Kalonzo stated that bloggers had twisted his remarks, which he made in a church setting. He insisted that he did not harbour hatred towards anyone and that Ruto remained a Kenyan brother despite what he described as the President's "many, many mistakes". Kalonzo drew a clear distinction between maintaining cordial relations and political cooperation, saying he would oppose Ruto firmly if necessary.
The Wiper leader dismissed suggestions that he would work with Ruto if the President defeated the opposition in the 2027 General Election. Kalonzo stated that any political contest would ultimately be decided by Kenyans, adding that he would not participate in any power-sharing arrangements. He cited his past political decisions, including not participating in the 2018 handshake between former President Uhuru Kenyatta and the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Kalonzo recalled that he rejected the broad-based government arrangement that brought some opposition figures into Ruto's administration. He said his position was influenced by what he described as the suffering of young Kenyans and their parents. Kalonzo accused the government of failing to address the needs of Gen Z protesters and their families.
The Wiper leader described the administration as "unlawful" and claimed that it had effectively been impeached on June 25, 2025, during the Gen Z protests. Kalonzo's remarks come amid renewed political realignments ahead of the 2027 General Election, with opposition leaders debating possible alliances and strategies for challenging Ruto.
Kalonzo emphasized that he would oppose Ruto firmly, stating "But we will deal with you very firmly". He also said that Kenyans would decide the outcome of the 2027 General Election, adding that "it's not us, ni Wakenya. Hakuna mambo ya kushirikiana hapa". This suggests that Kalonzo is confident that the opposition will succeed in defeating Ruto in the upcoming election.
The clarification by Kalonzo highlights the complexities of Kenyan politics, where alliances and relationships between leaders can shift rapidly. As the 2027 General Election approaches, opposition leaders are likely to continue debating possible alliances and strategies for challenging Ruto's administration.
Key points
- Kalonzo Musyoka clarifies that calling President Ruto "brother" does not imply support for his administration.
- The Wiper leader dismisses suggestions of working with Ruto if he defeats the opposition in the 2027 General Election.
- Kalonzo describes the Ruto administration as "unlawful" and claims it was effectively impeached during the Gen Z protests.
