Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has downplayed the significance of the recent meeting between President William Ruto and former President Uhuru Kenyatta, dismissing it as a calculated political move aimed at survival rather than the formation of an inclusive government.
Speaking on KTN, Kalonzo asserted that the meeting, which took place at Uhuru’s Ichaweri home in Gatundu, did not signal a change in the political landscape. “For me, nothing has changed. The revolution is ongoing,” he declared, emphasizing his belief that the President is seeking to strengthen his political foothold by leveraging alliances with influential figures.
A Photo Opportunity or Genuine Collaboration?
Kalonzo expressed skepticism about the intentions behind the meeting, pointing out that it was followed by the swift nomination of former President Kenyatta’s allies to key government positions. Among those nominated are Mutahi Kagwe (Agriculture and Livestock Development), William Kabogo (Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy), and Lee Kinyanjui (Investments, Trade, and Industry). Their vetting is scheduled for January 14, 2025.
Kalonzo compared this pattern to previous appointments of allies of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). “This is not broad-based governance. It’s someone trying to survive politically by staging a photo op with Uhuru Kenyatta and then rushing to make appointments,” he remarked.
The Need for Electoral Reforms
Despite these developments, Kalonzo remains steadfast in his call for electoral reforms, insisting that the ongoing political revolution will culminate in the 2027 general elections. He underscored the urgent need to constitute the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), noting that the lack of commissioners has paralyzed the electoral body’s operations.
“Without an IEBC Commissioner in place, by-elections cannot be held, and the integrity of the 2027 elections is at risk,” Kalonzo warned. He reiterated that having a fully functional electoral commission is crucial for ensuring credible elections.
Surprise Meeting Sparks Speculation
The Ruto-Uhuru meeting caught many Kenyans off guard, as it marked a rare interaction between the two leaders since the conclusion of their politically charged campaigns in 2022. State House described the meeting as a platform for discussing “matters of national and regional importance” while promoting unity and collaboration.
However, critics like Kalonzo view the meeting as a political maneuver rather than a sincere effort to foster unity. The swift appointments of Uhuru’s close allies have fueled speculation that Ruto is attempting to neutralize opposition and consolidate power ahead of the next election cycle.
Appointments Signal Strategic Alliances
The nominations of Kagwe, Kabogo, and Kinyanjui are seen as strategic moves to bring influential figures closer to Ruto’s administration. Observers note that such appointments may also serve to quell dissent and create the perception of a united leadership.
Nevertheless, Kalonzo remains adamant that these efforts will not deter the push for change. He insists that the political revolution is gaining momentum and will define Kenya’s political trajectory in the years to come.
A Call for Vigilance
Kalonzo’s remarks underscore a broader sentiment among opposition leaders, who remain wary of the government’s actions and their implications for democracy. As the nation awaits the vetting of the newly nominated officials, the debate over the true purpose of the Ruto-Uhuru meeting continues to dominate political discourse.
For now, Kalonzo’s message is clear: the revolution is far from over, and the road to 2027 will be marked by persistent calls for accountability and reform.
