Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka has come to the defense of retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, dismissing President William Ruto's description of him as a "rebel leader." Kalonzo stated that Uhuru has every right to participate in Kenya's politics. He emphasized that the 2027 General Election will not be a rematch between Ruto and Uhuru, but rather a contest between the current administration and citizens seeking change.
Kalonzo was responding to remarks made by Ruto during a recent tour of Siaya County, where he questioned why Uhuru remains active in opposition politics instead of taking on the role of an elder statesman. Ruto expressed surprise that a former President would choose to become an opposition leader rather than a statesman. This sparked an exchange between Kalonzo and Ruto, with Kalonzo accusing the President of trying to drag Uhuru into an artificial political confrontation.
Ruto also downplayed Uhuru's potential impact on the 2027 polls, arguing that Uhuru failed to stop his election in 2022 while holding state power. Ruto questioned whether Uhuru could defeat him now that he is retired. Kalonzo, however, described Uhuru's willingness to step aside as a mark of true statesmanship, following a High Court ruling that bars retired presidents from holding party leadership beyond six months after leaving office.
According to Kalonzo, Uhuru will convene a crucial Jubilee Party meeting to finalize transition plans, which will then be communicated to the wider Ukombozi Alliance. Arrangements for the official handover of the party's chairmanship will follow. Kalonzo emphasized that Uhuru has already chosen to abide by the court's decision, and that he will not engage in a contest with Ruto.
The legal picture shifted on Monday, when High Court Judge Bahati Mwamuye declared Section 6 of the Presidential Retirement Benefits Act unconstitutional. This ruling struck down the restriction that Justice Lawrence Mugambi upheld on September 14. The development has significant implications for Uhuru's future role in politics.
As opposition factions consolidate under the newly announced Ukombozi Alliance, Kalonzo stated that the coalition remains focused on presenting a unified front against the ruling Kenya Kwanza government heading into 2027. The alliance aims to challenge Ruto's administration and provide a strong opposition in the upcoming elections.
Kalonzo's defense of Uhuru comes amid a backdrop of shifting alliances and preparations for the 2027 General Election. With Uhuru set to step down from Jubilee leadership, the stage is set for a new era in Kenyan politics. The coming months will be crucial in determining the course of the country's future.
Key points
- - Kalonzo Musyoka defends Uhuru Kenyatta against Ruto's 'rebel leader' remark - Uhuru to step down from Jubilee leadership following High Court ruling - Opposition factions consolidate under Ukombozi Alliance to challenge Kenya Kwanza government
