‘Join Ruto? For What?’ — Pauline Njoroge Shuts Down Kalonzo Defection Rumours

Pauline Njoroge has dismissed claims that Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka is planning to join President William Ruto’s government.

Njoroge, a digital strategist and political analyst, made the remarks on Saturday through a social media post following renewed speculation after the Wiper National Delegates Conference (NDC) held on 10 October in Nairobi. She argued that Kalonzo is currently well-positioned to launch a strong presidential bid from within the opposition. 

According to her, the momentum gained during the recent NDC, along with increasing regional support, has significantly strengthened his political standing ahead of the 2027 general election. She said the idea of Kalonzo aligning with the Kenya Kwanza administration is both unfounded and strategically unnecessary.

Njoroge outlined Kalonzo’s existing support base, which she said includes Mt. Kenya, the Kamba region, Kisii, and parts of the Coast, Western Kenya, and the Maa community. She noted that this regional backing forms a credible foundation for a national campaign and reduces any incentive to work with the ruling coalition.

Her comments come amid ongoing efforts by the Kenya Kwanza government to expand its political reach. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki recently restated the administration’s willingness to collaborate with leaders across the political spectrum, including those in the opposition, in the interest of national unity and inclusive development.

Kalonzo, however, has previously confirmed that while he and others were invited to join the government, they chose not to participate. Speaking at a recent public event, he said the decision was driven by moral concerns, citing instances of injustice and the loss of lives. 

“We refuse to join a situation where our children have been killed, and we say, we shall compensate them,” he said.

Njoroge reaffirmed this position, insisting that Kalonzo is not seeking political accommodation in the ruling alliance. She described him as a leader who would not “trade his inheritance for a morsel of bread,” emphasising his commitment to opposition politics and his readiness for the next electoral contest.