Ruto allies in Ukambani declare Opposition 'dead on arrival'

The MPs cast doubt on ability of Opposition to take on Ruto in 2027

by Allan Kisia

Eastern04 October 2025 - 12:10

In Summary

Kawaya tore into the opposition, describing it as "a confused lot" lacking direction, unity, and credible leadership.
The leaders addressed residents during the second day of a series of rallies in Kalonzo Musyoka’s Ukambani stronghold.

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Allies of President William Ruto in Ukambani region have declared the so-called "United Opposition" dead and fractured beyond repair.

The politicians casted doubt on the ability of the Opposition to mount a serious challenge in the 2027 general election.

Speaking during a UDA-led rally at Musila Gardens in Mwingi town, Mwala MP and UDA National Organising Secretary Vincent Kawaya tore into the opposition, describing it as "a confused lot" lacking direction, unity, and credible leadership.

"Every leader in the opposition wants to be president in 2027. As we speak, they are split into three camps, and by the time we get to the elections, they will be five,” said Kawaya.

“They cannot form a government in that state. That’s why I am calling on my elder brother, the Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, to join us so we can form the next government and bring real development to the Ukambani region."

Kawaya noted that veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga is now working closely with Ruto, further destabilising the United Opposition.

“2027 will not be about empty rhetoric,” Kawaya added. “It will be about the scorecard. If you have ideas, go to the people and explain them. If you don’t, just step aside and let those with a plan work for Kenyans.”

He also dismissed Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's political ambitions following his recent impeachment, saying the DP “has no capacity to form a government” and is only wasting Kalonzo’s time by trying to court him into a separate alliance.

ODM Nominated Senator Beth Syengo echoed Kawaya’s sentiments, noting that ongoing government empowerment programmes—such as the bodaboda initiative being launched in Kitui—are pulling grassroots leaders away from the opposition and towards Ruto’s camp.

“The ground is shifting,” said Syengo. “The government is delivering, and leaders at the grassroots are taking note. They are moving with the tide of development.”

The leaders addressed residents during the second day of a series of rallies in Kalonzo Musyoka’s Ukambani stronghold, a deliberate effort to sway the region ahead of the next election.

They insisted that the the opposition, once seen as a formidable bloc, is now directionless and divided, stating that Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza coalition continues to grow in strength and appeal.

As the political realignment gains momentum in the region, all eyes are on Kalonzo—whether he will stay in what his rivals describe as a “sinking ship” or embrace a new political path ahead of 2027.