Opposition Shaky as Kalonzo's Party Rejects DCP's Pitch for Sifuna Presidency

Attempts to unite Kenya’s opposition ahead of the 2027 General Election hit a public wall after the Wiper Patriotic Front sharply rejected claims by Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) that its leader, Kalonzo Musyoka, is being persuaded to step down and deputise Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna.

The controversy broke out over comments made by DCP Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala during an event in Kakamega County. Malala stated that DCP had settled on Sifuna, leader of the Linda Mwananchi Movement (LMM), as its preferred presidential flagbearer to challenge President William Ruto. He added that DCP officials planned to meet Kalonzo to convince him to take the running mate slot.

Wiper spokesperson Ndegwa Njiru fired back immediately, dismissing Malala’s remarks as political theatrics designed to create division within opposition ranks. Njiru urged the media to ignore the statement, describing Malala as a "playwright" rather than a serious political actor intent on building a unified front.

Despite the war of words, talks between key opposition figures continued on the ground. Kalonzo met former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua at his Wamunyoro rural home in Nyeri County, following a series of high-level consultative meetings held at the residence.

The Wamunyoro consultations began on October 20, when Gachagua, fresh from a trip to the United States, hosted a delegation from the Linda Mwananchi camp. That meeting included former Law Society of Kenya president Faith Odhiambo, Linda Mwananchi head of communication Pauline Njoroge, DCP Secretary General John Methu, and Malala.

While Gachagua insists the opposition remains on track to unveil a single presidential candidate, internal distrust is surfacing. DCP Secretary General John Methu accused former Jubilee Party leader Fred Matiang'i and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro of secretly working for President Ruto to destabilise opposition unity.

Although Kalonzo previously signaled a willingness to consider a joint ticket with Sifuna, Wiper's strong response indicates that the contest for the opposition's top ticket remains wide open, with multiple leaders refusing to cede ground before formal negotiations yield a consensus.