Ruto’s Allies Mount Pressure on Kalonzo to Join Government Before 2027
Ruto has intensified his charm offensive in Ukambani as part of his plan to lure Wiper Democratic Movement leader Kalonzo Musyoka to government ahead of 2027 General Election.
On Thursday, October 2, Ruto’s allies, led by Mwala MP and UDA National Organising Secretary Vincent Kawaya, went on a charm offensive in Kalonzo’s backyard of Katse, Mwingi North. They asked the veteran opposition leader to consider working with the government for the sake of the region’s development.
“There comes a time when our people’s interests must come before personal interests,” Kawaya said, noting that Ukambani had no presidential and deputy presidential candidate in the last polls. He compared Kalonzo’s situation to that of Raila Odinga who despite being the opposition leader has worked with the government to develop Nyanza.
According to Kawaya, Ukambani can also benefit if Kalonzo joins Ruto. “For the short time some of us have partnered with Ruto, we’ve seen projects being launched. How much more can we achieve if Kalonzo himself comes on board?” he asked.
Kawaya said his appeal was not based on personal rivalry but respect for Kalonzo as a statesman. He described him as a political elder and wants to build a legacy of development in Ukambani.
The message was echoed by Masinga MP Joshua Mwalyo and senators Beth Syengo and Tabitha Mutinda who jointly asked Kalonzo to reconsider his stance. They said true access to development resources is within government not opposition.
“If Raila, the opposition leader has found it wise to cooperate for the sake of his people’s progress then Kalonzo should also take this opportunity for Ukambani,” Mwalyo said.
Senator Syengo added, “There is too much hunger and struggle outside government. Kalonzo, we ask you to join hands with us because development is only possible when we are part of the ruling side.”Kawaya’s rising star has also unsettled Kalonzo’s camp.
Recently he was crowned a Kamba elder by a section of Ukambani Council of Elders and is positioning himself as a successor to Kalonzo’s throne in local politics. His role in boda boda empowerment programmes under Ruto’s government has further solidified his image as a link between Ukambani residents and State House.
Deputy President and former Interior CS Kithure Kindiki has in recent weeks also hinted that the Kenya Kwanza government is open to working with Kalonzo, leaving the Wiper boss at a crossroads—whether to stay in opposition or join Ruto’s government in the countdown to 2027.
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Ruto’s Allies Mount Pressure on Kalonzo to Join Government Before 2027