Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has reaffirmed his commitment to the opposition, stating he will not join President William Ruto's administration. He made these remarks at Thegu Ward in Kieni Constituency, Nyeri county, during the burial of Mama Eunice Nyangari Gachagua, the elder sister of Democracy for the Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua. Kalonzo was accompanied by other opposition leaders, including DAP-Kenya leader Eugene Wamalwa and Siaya Governor James Orengo.
Kalonzo emphasized the importance of unity in the opposition, stating that individual ambitions must take a backseat to the interests of Kenyans. He recalled previously putting aside his presidential ambitions in support of Raila Odinga for about 15 years and expressed willingness to make a similar sacrifice for the sake of opposition unity. This commitment to unity comes ahead of the 2027 General Election, where the opposition aims to present a joint presidential candidate.
The Wiper leader dismissed suggestions that he could negotiate his way into Ruto's government if the opposition settled on another candidate. He stated that he would never join Ruto's administration, regardless of the outcome of their consultations. Kalonzo also recalled standing with Gachagua during his impeachment, reaffirming his support for the former Deputy President and the wider GEMA community.
During his speech, Kalonzo reflected on Nyeri's significance, being the home of former President Mwai Kibaki, under whom he served as Vice President. He credited Kibaki with championing the 2010 Constitution and Vision 2030, highlighting these as among his greatest contributions to the country. Kalonzo emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law and constitutionalism to deliver Vision 2030.
Kalonzo introduced the concept of the "Kenya at 100 conversation," urging political leaders to consider the country's long-term future beyond electoral contests. He noted that Kenya would mark its centenary in 2063, and children born this year would be 36 when the country turns 100. This conversation aims to encourage leaders to think about the kind of Kenya they want to leave for future generations.
The event was attended by several notable leaders, including Chief Justice Emeritus David Maraga and Linda Mwananchi Movement leader Edwin Sifuna. These leaders condoled with the Gachagua family and reaffirmed their commitment to presenting a joint opposition presidential candidate in 2027. The gathering demonstrated the opposition's unity and determination to present a strong front against Ruto's administration.
Key to Kalonzo's message was his unwavering commitment to his word, stating that his "word is my bond." He emphasized that unity is not negotiable and that the interests of Kenyans must come before individual ambitions. With this statement, Kalonzo solidified his stance on opposition unity and his dedication to supporting a single opposition candidate in the 2027 General Election.
Key points
- Kalonzo Musyoka rules out joining President William Ruto's administration.
- The Wiper leader emphasizes the importance of opposition unity ahead of the 2027 General Election.
- Kalonzo introduces the "Kenya at 100 conversation," focusing on the country's long-term future.
