Kenyan politician Kalonzo Musyoka, leader of the Wiper party, is set to embark on a tour of Nyanza and Western Kenya. The visit aims to bolster his 2027 presidential ambitions. Musyoka's tour starts in Busia, where he will visit Bumala and Nambale. He will then proceed to Bondo, Siaya County, where he will attend a church service at St Michael's All Angels Cathedral.
The tour takes Musyoka to areas traditionally considered strongholds of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party. These areas have been a significant base of support for Raila Odinga, a long-time ally of Musyoka. The visit comes after President William Ruto completed a five-day tour of Nyanza. Ruto's tour was part of efforts to build a new political base in regions previously considered opposition strongholds.
Analysts view Musyoka's tour as crucial in preparations for the 2027 general election. Musyoka aims to build direct relationships with voters in Nyanza and Western Kenya. These regions have long supported Raila Odinga in previous elections. As a former close ally of Raila, Musyoka seeks to convert this political friendship into personal support from voters.
Musyoka's relationship with Raila Odinga dates back over a decade. In 2013, he stepped aside from his presidential ambitions to be Raila's running mate under the Coalition for Reforms and Democracy (CORD). They again ran together in 2017 under the National Super Alliance (NASA). In the 2022 election, Musyoka remained a key figure in Raila's Azimio la Umoja One Kenya campaign.
A significant challenge for Musyoka is converting his long-standing friendship with Raila's supporters into personal backing. This task has become more complex following Raila's passing and subsequent political changes. Some of Raila's former allies have started collaborating with the current government, while others attempt to create a new opposition front.
According to political circles, Musyoka relies on the support of Siaya Governor James Orengo to strengthen his campaign in Nyanza. Orengo remains influential in the region despite his association with the Linda Mwananchi movement led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna. Musyoka's visits to Busia also hold political significance, as the area typically supports opposition parties.
President Ruto has increased his political and development activities in Busia, attracting some local leaders to support his agenda. His recent projects in Kisumu, Siaya, Migori, and Homa Bay counties focus on infrastructure, water services, markets, healthcare, and education. This strategy has helped Ruto build an image as a leader focused on development rather than divisive politics.
Key points
- Musyoka's tour aims to strengthen his 2027 presidential bid in traditional ODM strongholds.
- The tour follows President Ruto's efforts to build support in Nyanza and Western Kenya.
- Musyoka seeks to convert his long-standing relationships with Raila's supporters into personal backing for his presidential ambitions.
