Maanzo Warns Opposition Against Joining Ruto Government, Claims Kalonzo Is Being Targeted Ahead of 2027
Senator says defections could weaken opposition as political realignments gather pace
Makueni Senator Daniel Maanzo has cautioned opposition leaders against joining President William Ruto’s administration, warning that such political moves could undermine their standing ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a radio interview on Friday, August 14, 2026, the Wiper Party senator argued that the political landscape is entering a critical phase, with alliances, defections and coalition-building expected to intensify as parties position themselves for the next presidential contest.
Maanzo claimed that President Ruto is actively seeking to bring prominent opposition figures into his fold in an effort to strengthen the image of his administration both locally and internationally.
“Joining William Ruto now from the opposition is like suicide,” Maanzo declared during the interview.
The senator specifically pointed to Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, alleging that the former Vice President has become a key target in ongoing political calculations because of his influence and electoral value.
“I know William Ruto is looking for people to clean him up and give him a better image even internationally. And that’s why they are really targeting Kalonzo,” Maanzo said.
According to the senator, Kalonzo remains one of the most influential opposition leaders in the country, commanding a significant voting bloc and enjoying the support of numerous elected leaders, making him a crucial figure in any coalition negotiations ahead of the 2027 elections.
His remarks come at a time when Kenya’s political environment is witnessing increasing speculation over possible alliances, defections and coalition arrangements as leaders seek to consolidate support bases ahead of the next General Election.
Maanzo dismisses claims of Sifuna defection
The Makueni lawmaker also moved to dismiss speculation surrounding Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, insisting that the outspoken ODM politician remains firmly rooted in the opposition despite persistent rumours linking him to possible political realignments.
Maanzo argued that Sifuna would face significant resistance from his supporters if he were to abandon his current political position.
“Similarly, Sifuna cannot go back. No matter how much money is laid on his head,” he said.
The senator noted that Sifuna, together with Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Siaya Governor James Orengo, were elected on ODM tickets and continue to represent a section of the party that remains committed to opposition politics.
His comments are likely to fuel further debate over the future direction of ODM and the broader opposition movement, especially amid growing discussions about coalition-building ahead of 2027.
Deputy president debate emerges
Maanzo also weighed in on recent remarks attributed to Kisii Governor Simba Arati, suggesting they could signal emerging competition over leadership positions within any future political alliance.
According to the senator, Arati has indicated that discussions with President Ruto would be difficult without addressing the question of the deputy president’s position.
“Come on, we are going for number two, and we have no discussion unless we have number two,” Maanzo quoted Arati as saying.
The senator argued that the jockeying for key positions is already shaping political conversations across the country and could have significant implications for regional voting patterns, including in the Mt Kenya region.
With less than a year before the country enters the peak campaign period for the 2027 General Election, Maanzo said the current political manoeuvres should be viewed as part of a broader struggle for influence and bargaining power among Kenya’s leading political players.
His remarks underscore the growing uncertainty surrounding future coalition formations and the battle for political dominance as the race to succeed or challenge President Ruto begins to take shape.
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