Kenyan President William Ruto has stepped up efforts to persuade Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka to join his government, a move that could significantly impact the country's politics. Kalonzo, 73, has been eyeing the presidency since 2007 and has supported Raila Odinga in previous elections. With the 2027 presidential election approaching, Ruto's government is seeking to woo Kalonzo, who commands significant influence in the Ukambani region.
Kalonzo's decision to remain in the opposition or join Ruto's government will be crucial in determining his political future. If he joins the government, there is no guarantee he will be given a prominent position. On the other hand, staying in the opposition may cost him the presidential ticket. Ruto's government has increased its efforts to persuade Kalonzo, with Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, and Presidential Aide Farouk Kibet meeting with him.
The opposition has dismissed Ruto's overtures, with Kalonzo's allies arguing that the president views him as a significant threat in the 2027 election. Seneta wa Kitui Enoch Wambua said Ruto's efforts to persuade Kalonzo are a sign that he fears his ability to win the election. Wambua noted that Kalonzo has significant influence in the Ukambani region, which has approximately 2.2 million voters.
The Wiper party has reaffirmed its support for Kalonzo's presidential ambitions, with Seneta wa Makueni Dan Maanzo stating that the party will not allow Kalonzo to be influenced by Ruto's overtures. Deputy Governor of Machakos Francis Mwangangi said Kalonzo's desire for the presidency is driven by his desire to lead the country, and that this ambition does not involve collaborating with Ruto.
Analysts believe that Kalonzo may consider joining Ruto's government if he is not given the opposition's presidential ticket. Profesa David Monda noted that Kalonzo's decision will depend on various factors, including his chances of winning the presidential election. Profesa Macharia Munene said the opposition is facing challenges due to competing interests among its leaders.
Ruto has been courting Kalonzo for some time, having approached him in May 2025 after the 2022 election. Kalonzo reportedly rejected Ruto's proposal, and the president has since increased his efforts to persuade him. Last week, Ruto visited Kalonzo's home in Tseikuru, where he criticized the opposition for allegedly humiliating Kalonzo.
Kalonzo has previously stated that abandoning his presidential ambitions would mark his retirement from politics. He has expressed his desire to lead the country, having previously contested the presidency in 2002, 2013, and 2022. The Wiper party's stance on the matter will be crucial in determining Kalonzo's next move.
Key points
- President Ruto is seeking to woo Kalonzo Musyoka to join his government amid opposition resistance.
- Kalonzo's decision will significantly impact Kenya's politics and his own future.
- The opposition has dismissed Ruto's overtures, viewing them as an attempt to weaken their chances in the 2027 election.
