Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has confirmed plans to form a new political coalition, marking a strategic shift away from the recently unveiled broad-based government. This revelation came during his visit to Kiambu County, where he announced the formation of a new political entity, which has the blessings of former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Speaking to an enthusiastic crowd, Kalonzo appealed to residents of the Mt. Kenya region to embrace this new movement. “Be part of the next movement ambayo tunaunda. Make no mistake, former President Uhuru Kenyatta is with us, yuko pamoja nasi,” he declared. This statement underscores the significance of the new coalition and its potential impact on the political landscape in Kenya.
Kalonzo’s announcement is seen as an attempt to realign political forces in the country, especially in the Central Kenya region. He assured the residents that Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition would oppose any plans to oust Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua from his position. This move is part of Kalonzo’s broader strategy to gain support from the Central Kenya region, which is crucial for any political coalition aiming for national influence.
The formation of this new political coalition comes in the wake of significant political shifts within the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition. With former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s ODM party agreeing to work with President William Ruto’s administration, there has been a realignment of political alliances. Some of Odinga’s allies have been nominated by Ruto to serve in his Cabinet, awaiting approval from MPs before assuming their positions. This development has prompted Kalonzo and other leaders to consider alternative political arrangements.
The Kalonzo-led group, which includes Jubilee Party Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni and DAP Kenya leader Eugene Wamalwa, believes it is time to move on from Azimio. They argue that there must be an alternative to the current political dynamics in the country. “Mwenye tumeachiwa sasa na mwenye tunatembea na yeye because there must be an alternative to the things that are happening in this country is Kalonzo. Sisi Wakazi wa eneo hili (la Mt Kenya) tufungue macho. Sisi tukitembea na Kalonzo tunaomba Mungu mapenzi yake yafanyike,” said Jeremiah Kioni, emphasizing the need for a new political direction.
Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu echoed these sentiments, urging Kalonzo to lead the effort in bringing together leaders from the Central Kenya region. “Mheshimiwa Kalonzo Musyoka, wewe ongoza sisi wote turudiane, tutengeneza ile GEMA ya mbeleni,” Waititu added. This call for unity reflects the growing support for Kalonzo’s new political initiative.
The support of former President Uhuru Kenyatta adds significant weight to Kalonzo’s plans. Kenyatta’s influence in the Mt. Kenya region and his endorsement of the new coalition could potentially shift the political dynamics in favor of Kalonzo and his allies. This backing also indicates a strategic alliance aimed at countering the current administration’s influence.
Kalonzo’s charm offensive in the Central Kenya region is part of a broader strategy to build a formidable political force capable of challenging the existing political establishment. By promising to protect the interests of the region and opposing any plans to oust Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Kalonzo aims to garner significant support from the region.
As the political landscape in Kenya continues to evolve, the formation of this new coalition marks a significant development. With the backing of influential leaders and the endorsement of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, Kalonzo Musyoka’s new political entity has the potential to reshape the country’s political dynamics. The coming months will be crucial in determining the impact of this new coalition on Kenya’s political future.
