Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi/FILEMachakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi has dismissed talk that Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka could join forces with President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking to Citizen TV on Monday, Mwangangi firmly stated that while some opposition leaders might join the Kenya Kwanza coalition, Kalonzo is not among them.
“You will call me back here after the elections, and I want to assure you, Kalonzo is not one of them because he is not available for Ruto,” said Mwangangi, emphasising Kalonzo’s continued commitment to opposition politics.
Kalonzo has long maintained his position as a presidential contender, consistently asserting his independence from the ruling coalition.
Mwangangi highlighted the importance of a strong opposition in Kenya’s democracy, criticising efforts to “buy or coerce” opposition leaders into government ranks.
“What is all this buying or coercing opposition leaders to join you? We need to have a strong opposition to enhance accountability of the government,” he remarked.
Mwangangi recalled Ruto’s own criticism of such tactics before the 2022 elections.
“When he was Deputy President and spoke at Chatham House in London, he castigated these moves. I remember him saying a strong opposition will check the government of the day effectively,” Mwangangi added.
The deputy governor warned that opposition leaders who succumb to political inducements might regret their decisions after the 2027 polls.
Bomet Senator Hillary Sigei however defended efforts by Kenya Kwanza to reach out to other political players, describing such moves as promoting peace, stability, and effective governance.
“National unity was one of Kenya Kwanza’s key manifesto promises and should not be confined to a single coalition or party,” said Sigei. “Transforming the country will require all of us.”
Critics argue that these crossovers may be driven more by political expediency than genuine ideological alignment.
Speculation about Kalonzo’s potential realignment with Ruto has been rife, fueled by recent political developments, although no official announcements have been made by either camp.
The rumors gained momentum after former Baringo Senator and
Kanu chair Gideon Moi joined forces with the ruling coalition.
Kenya Kwanza and Kanu have agreed to deepen their cooperation ahead of the 2027 elections, signaling a strategic consolidation that could shift the political landscape.
KANU, Kenya’s oldest political party, has struggled to maintain its influence amid the rise of new political formations but has recently been rebuilding its profile through strategic alliances.
The evolving political alliances highlight a dynamic pre-election environment, with Kenya’s political leaders positioning themselves for influence as the country approaches 2027. However, Mwangangi’s message is clear: Kalonzo remains firmly in opposition.
