Wiper leader and co-principal of the Azimio la Umoja coalition, Kalonzo Musyoka, has emphasized his intention to pose a strong challenge to President William Ruto in the upcoming 2027 General Election.
Despite his longstanding uncertainty about pursuing the nation’s top seat, Kalonzo asserts that he will be a powerful contender in the next election.
In an interview with The Standard, Kalonzo confidently stated, “Kenyans should already know who President Ruto’s main challenger in 2027 is. I am the one.
Even the president himself announced my bid for the top seat recently.”
He further expressed determination, asserting that nothing, including the potential fielding of candidates by Azimio member parties, will deter him from participating in the presidential race.
The 70-year-old political veteran clarified that his decision to run in 2027 will not be influenced by Raila Odinga’s presidential aspirations.
Reflecting on the 2022 elections, Kalonzo mentioned, “In 2022, I decided not to vie in favor of Raila, but I don’t expect any payback from him.”
As speculations continue about Odinga’s potential candidacy or endorsement of Kalonzo, the political landscape remains tense.
While Odinga has not confirmed his participation in the presidential race, he expressed confidence in Kalonzo’s ability to defeat Ruto in a fair contest.
Odinga’s spokesperson, Dennis Onyango, conveyed, “Mr. Odinga believes that Mr. Musyoka has what it takes to beat Hon. William Ruto in a free and fair presidential contest.”
In contrast, President Ruto has declared that he will not seek re-election, emphasizing his commitment to instigating permanent transformation in Kenya.
At a November 2023 event, Ruto stated, “I am not planning on being re-elected.
I am planning on how we will transform Kenya.
Being elected again is by God’s plan and the will of Kenyans.
My work is changing Kenya, not planning on how I will be re-elected.”
Ruto stressed the importance of shifting focus from the next election to the next generation, advocating for a forward-looking approach to address the country’s challenges.
