Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka has intensified his criticism of President William Ruto's administration, questioning its empowerment programs and promising to scrap the housing levy if the opposition secures power in the 2027 General Election. On September 26, 2026, during the Komboa Kenya Western Tour in Busia County, Kalonzo alleged that the government's empowerment initiatives have not improved the lives of ordinary Kenyans. He cited the milk shortage as an example, saying, "Na wewe unasema ati tunafanya empowerment. Maziwa hakuna."
Kalonzo pointed to the recent Ol Kalou parliamentary contest, which he said offered a lesson on how voters can respond to leaders who use items and other forms of assistance during campaigns. He alleged that campaigners had taken several items to voters, including wheelbarrows, mattresses, gas, and a boat. According to Kalonzo, the outcome of the Ol Kalou by-election showed that voters can reject leaders who engage in such practices. He referenced the sentiments of Nyandarua Senator Joe Nyutu, who had raised concerns about the distribution of mattresses, blankets, and other items by government officials during the Ol Kalou by-election campaign.
The Wiper leader's comments on the housing levy have significant implications for Kenyans. Kalonzo described the levy as part of the tax burden facing Kenyans and said his proposed administration would take a different approach to taxation. He assured residents that his government would prioritize their needs and remove the housing levy, which he believes is an unnecessary burden on citizens. Kalonzo stated, "Lakini nataka niwahakikishie, hiyo kwa sababu ni sera ya Bwana Ruto, sera yetu ya Alternative United Government itakuwa safari ya kwanza ni kuondolea mbali ushuru huu wa housing."
Kalonzo's remarks came as he continued his political activities in Western Kenya, seeking to rally support ahead of the 2027 General Election. The Busia stop was part of the Komboa Kenya Western Tour, with the Wiper leader also scheduled to engage residents in Siaya. His efforts aim to strengthen his position and that of his party, the Wiper Patriotic Front, in the region. The tour also provides an opportunity for Kalonzo to interact with residents and understand their concerns.
The housing levy has been a contentious issue in Kenya, with various stakeholders raising concerns about its implementation. Recently, a court decision was made regarding the levy, and Kalonzo stated that the opposition would pursue its own position if it takes over government. He expressed confidence that the opposition's approach would be more beneficial to Kenyans, saying, "Kwa hivyo, hata kama uamuzi unatoka kusema unaweza kuendelea, endelea tu. Lakini zimesalia siku mia tatu pekee yake."
President Ruto's administration has been working to implement various empowerment programs aimed at improving the lives of Kenyans. However, Kalonzo's criticism suggests that these initiatives have not been effective. The Wiper leader's stance on the housing levy and empowerment programs is likely to resonate with Kenyans who are seeking change in the upcoming elections. As the 2027 General Election approaches, Kalonzo's efforts to rally support and criticize the current administration are expected to intensify.
The 2027 General Election is shaping up to be a significant event in Kenya's politics, with various leaders vying for power. Kalonzo's campaign trail and criticism of President Ruto's administration are part of the larger narrative. The Wiper leader's commitment to removing the housing levy and implementing alternative empowerment programs will likely be a key aspect of his campaign. The outcome of the election will determine the future of Kenya's politics and the fate of various initiatives, including the housing levy.
Key points
- Kalonzo Musyoka criticizes President Ruto's empowerment programs and promises to remove housing levy if opposition wins 2027 elections.
- The Wiper leader cites milk shortage and Ol Kalou by-election as examples of government's failed empowerment initiatives.
- Kalonzo's stance on housing levy and empowerment programs is likely to resonate with Kenyans seeking change in the upcoming elections.
