Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Former DP Rigathi Gachagua
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Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has publicly questioned the impartiality of the upcoming Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) reconstitution process and sharply criticised the current administration’s policies.
Speaking at a wedding ceremony in Limuru, Kiambu County on Saturday, Kalonzo's statements underscored the growing tensions within the Azimio coalition, particularly regarding former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's recent engagement with President William Ruto. Kalonzo revealed that he has communicated his concerns to Odinga, urging the Azimio leader to ensure full implementation of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report. His apprehension stems from a perceived understanding between Odinga and President Ruto, fearing that it may compromise the selection process for new IEBC commissioners.
He emphasizes the need for transparency in the selection panel's nominations to avoid perceptions of bias or undue influence. Beyond electoral matters, Kalonzo presents a bleak assessment of President Ruto's leadership, citing a decline in Kenya's international standing, deteriorating educational standards, and an increase in abduction cases. He positions the Wiper Party as a committed and vigilant opposition, determined to hold the government accountable.
Kalonzo specifically addresses the controversial Adani deals, accusing the government of failing to comply with court orders to provide documentation proving their cancellation. He argues that the government's reluctance to produce the requested documents raises serious questions about its commitment to the rule of law and transparency. Kalonzo has also urged Kenyans to pray for the opposition, citing concerns over the country's current trajectory. Kalonzo emphasizes the need for divine guidance to steer the nation in the right direction.
He expresses optimism about the potential for collaboration with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and former President Uhuru Kenyatta, drawing parallels to the post-election coalition with Mwai Kibaki in 2007, which he credited with strengthening the country. "When Kalonzo teamed up with Kibaki, did the country become strong or not? Now I want you to know that if we team up with Riggy G (Rigathi Gachagua) and Uhuru Kenyatta, we will be much stronger than ever," he stated, indicating ongoing talks with leaders from various communities to solidify a united front.
However, Kalonzo distances himself from the broad-based government initiative, which emerged from an agreement between President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. This agreement has led to the inclusion of some members from the opposition Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) in the Kenya Kwanza administration, through appointments as Cabinet Secretaries and Principal Secretaries. The latest changes this week included the creation of seven additional state departments.
Kalonzo and other Azimio coalition leaders have declined to join the broad-based government, asserting their determination to form the next government.