‘We Are Together’: Kalonzo Reaches Out to Somali Community Following Gachagua Controversy

Kalonzo Musyoka, leader of the Wiper Party, has moved to reassure Kenya’s Somali community amid rising political tensions, following controversial remarks by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Speaking at the funeral of Muhia Njoroge in Kipipiri, Kalonzo emphasised the opposition’s commitment to national unity, distancing his party from any hostility towards the Somali community. He reiterated that the opposition is focused on building inclusivity, saying, “We want to assure Somalis and every other Kenyan who is not a criminal that we are together; we are working for the real unity of Kenya.”

The remarks come in the wake of Gachagua’s earlier comments about alleged corruption linked to a businessman in Eastleigh, which many perceived as targeting the Somali community. Gachagua later clarified that his criticism was aimed at individuals involved in illicit trade, not at any ethnic group.

In addition to addressing ethnic concerns, Kalonzo also criticised President William Ruto’s vision of transforming Kenya into “the Singapore of Africa.” He dismissed the comparison as inappropriate and misleading, arguing that it oversimplifies Kenya’s challenges and offers little practical value.