Kalonzo Rejects Joining Administration and Prepares for 2027 Polls

Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka has ruled out joining President William Ruto’s administration, stating his intention to challenge him in the 2027 General Election. Kalonzo dismissed reports suggesting that he was being courted to join the government, insisting that he remains firmly in the opposition. He argued that taking a position within the ruling administration would contradict his role as a principal political opponent. I have seen the headlines quoting Kalonzo, that people are looking for me, he said, adding that meeting on the ballot democratically is the only path forward. He made these statements following a church service at AIC Kyemutheke in Kyumvi, Machakos County. These remarks arrive amidst ongoing efforts by Kenya Kwanza allies to persuade Kalonzo to collaborate with Ruto prior to the upcoming elections. Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua disclosed plans to engage Kalonzo in discussions, while presidential aide Farouk Kibet has also advocated for the Wiper leader to leave the opposition. Despite these overtures, Kalonzo and his party have repeatedly rejected claims of an impending alliance, affirming their dedication to the opposition alongside Gachagua and other figures. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua previously urged allies of President Ruto to halt their attempts to recruit Kalonzo, characterizing the efforts as entirely unsuccessful. The political leader emphasized that Kalonzo stays dedicated to their shared agenda heading into the 2027 polls. Addressing congregants at PCEA Kamangu in Kikuyu Constituency, Kiambu County, Gachagua criticized the ruling coalition’s attempts to entice Kalonzo away from the opposition. I have seen people in government trying very hard to woo Kalonzo, telling him to join them because he will not get anything in the opposition, Gachagua stated. He praised Kalonzo as a reliable and principled leader who would not forsake the electorate. Gachagua called on government allies to cease their public appeals, reiterating that the Wiper leader has firmly decided to stay in opposition ranks. He further challenged administration representatives to direct their requests through him at his Wamunyoro residence rather than seeking Kalonzo directly in Nairobi. The former Deputy President reiterated that Kalonzo remains dedicated to what he described as the national liberation movement and continues to collaborate closely with opposition figures to contest the administration.