Gachagua instead said the tag belongs to ODM leader Raila Odinga, who he claims has often found a way of working with his rivals immediately after losing elections.
“Raila has played Kalonzo for 14 years; he even interviewed him for a running mate position, but he (Kalonzo) has never betrayed him. Kalonzo has had a stand from day one,” he said.
Gachagua, who was impeached last year, recalled that Raila worked with late Daniel Moi after the 1997 elections, with late Mwai Kibaki post 2007 elections, Uhuru Kenyatta after 2017 and now President William Ruto after 2022 polls.
"In fact, he is the ‘Watermelon’ of Kenya. The person who doesn’t have any stand in Kenya. The real watermelon is Raila. So, the tag you gave Kalonzo now belongs to you (Raila),” he said.
Gachagua claimed that leaders affiliated to the United Opposition had been approached to join the government but declined, adding that Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya had assured him of his commitment to the team.
“Eugene Wamalwa was offered a Cabinet slot in the Broad-based government, but he declined. So, between myself, Kalonzo, Wamalwa, Natembeya and Martha Karua; those five leaders can not betray the people of Kenya and among us, we shall name one person to compete with Ruto.”
On his side, Kalonzo said he was thankful to Gachagua for the comments and declared the team will not be divided as the country heads to 2027.
“I have always stood with the people, and not even once have I ever betrayed the interests of my beloved country. Yes, I have been betrayed many times along the way, but my faith in God and my resolve to serve Kenya have never wavered. I remain committed to the dream of a united, prosperous, and just nation where leadership is about service, not self-interest.”
Gachagua and Kalonzo were speaking at Kitengela town after attending a Sunday service at Jesus Exaltation Centre Orkinos Schook, in Olooloitikos, Kajiado county on Sunday.
They were accompanied by Wamalwa and several MPs affiliated to both Wiper and Gachagua’s DCP.
