Kalonzo Musyoka, the leader of the Wiper party, made significant statements on Wednesday, March 27, regarding his political positioning and strategy following the release of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report. Speaking at a burial ceremony in Kaiti Constituency, Makueni County, Kalonzo pointed out that the NADCO report had solidified his role within the government as the official opposition leader.
Before the NADCO discussions, there had been ambiguity surrounding who held the legitimate leadership of the government. However, the report officially acknowledged President William Ruto as the Head of State, thereby establishing Kalonzo as part of the government by virtue of his position as the opposition leader.
Kalonzo speaks
Kalonzo articulated this newfound status, stating, “The fact that William Ruto is now properly in place as President, I want to announce to you guys that we are properly in place as the official opposition. Therefore, we become the government.”
He also highlighted the shift in the opposition’s stance towards President Ruto, noting that they now accorded him respect following a period of civil disobedience.
Regarding the negotiation process between Kenya Kwanza and Azimio, Kalonzo revealed that Azimio Principals Raila Odinga and Martha Karua had previously refrained from acknowledging Ruto as President. However, with the NADCO report, this stance changed, leading to a more structured political landscape.
Kalonzo emphasized his role in the opposition, stating that his objective was to prevent Kenya Kwanza from securing a second term in the upcoming 2027 elections. He declared his readiness for a rigorous political battle to ensure that President Ruto became a one-term leader for the country’s betterment.
Drawing inspiration from recent political developments in Senegal, Kalonzo expressed confidence in Kenya’s potential to witness an opposition candidate unseating the ruling party. He positioned himself as the alternative candidate, citing widespread dissatisfaction among Kenyans with Ruto’s administration, particularly concerning issues like over-taxation.
In conclusion, Kalonzo Musyoka’s statements reflect a strategic approach to his political role, aligning with the NADCO report’s outcomes and setting the stage for a dynamic political landscape leading up to the 2027 elections.
