Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has urged the police and army in Kenya to prepare to step in if protests intensify, advising them to instruct President William Ruto to step down if the situation becomes untenable. Speaking during a church service on Sunday, Musyoka announced plans to lead a major political coalition aimed at unseating Ruto’s administration in the 2027 general elections. His remarks underscore growing concerns over the country’s political stability as opposition voices become more vocal.
Musyoka’s call to the police and military reflects increasing frustrations with President Ruto’s administration, which critics argue has failed to deliver on key promises made during the 2022 election campaign. In his address, Musyoka highlighted the need for change in the country, citing the success of other nations in toppling ruling regimes through mass mobilization and protests. “If the next maandamano (protest) comes, I advise the army and police… if you see things are bad, tell Ruto to leave,” he said, emphasizing that the situation in Kenya could reach a point where it demands such drastic action.
This call to action by Kalonzo Musyoka is part of a broader strategy to consolidate opposition forces under one banner. He announced plans to form a major coalition with leaders from various political parties, aiming to present a united front in the 2027 elections. The goal is not only to unseat Ruto’s administration but also to bring about meaningful change in the way the country is governed. “We need a government that respects the rule of law, listens to the people, and addresses the real issues affecting Kenyans,” Musyoka stated.
Kalonzo’s message was echoed by other key figures in the opposition, including Jubilee Party Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni and former Limuru MP Peter Mwathi. Both leaders pledged their support for the coalition, emphasizing the importance of unity, especially in the Mt. Kenya region. Kioni, in particular, noted that rallying support from this region was crucial to challenging Ruto’s rule effectively. “The people of Mt. Kenya must realize that their power in the next elections is crucial. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about leadership that understands their needs,” Kioni said.
The growing unrest in the country and the intensification of protests against Ruto’s government have been a major concern for both the opposition and the administration. In recent months, the Azimio coalition, which Musyoka leads, has organized a series of protests under the maandamano slogan, protesting against what they see as unfair policies and governance by the current administration. These protests, which have at times turned violent, have prompted calls for a change in leadership from several quarters, including religious and civil society leaders.
Musyoka’s strategy to form a major political coalition is seen as a way to consolidate opposition strength and create a formidable challenge to Ruto’s government in 2027. The former Vice President’s calls for intervention by the police and military are likely to be interpreted as a signal of desperation by those who feel marginalized by the current administration. However, his message also underscores a growing impatience with the status quo, especially among young people and those who feel left out of the economic growth promised by Ruto’s government.
As the country looks towards the next general elections, the importance of political unity cannot be overstated. The formation of a coalition by Musyoka represents not just a shift in strategy but a significant opportunity for the opposition to mobilize voters across the country. The challenge for Musyoka and his allies will be to build a coalition that is more than just an anti-Ruto alliance; it must be a platform for meaningful change that resonates with Kenyans from all walks of life.
The calls for the police and army to step in and take charge if the situation becomes too volatile also reflect the frustration with the current political system and the lack of trust in the electoral process. Many Kenyans feel that without systemic changes, the same issues will continue to plague the nation. Musyoka’s message is, therefore, not just about unseating Ruto; it’s about bringing about a more accountable government that respects the voices of its people.
In conclusion, as Kenya moves closer to the 2027 elections, the urgency for political change is becoming more palpable. Kalonzo Musyoka’s proposal to form a major coalition and his call for the army and police to intervene in case of escalating protests highlight the deep-seated concerns among Kenyans about the current government’s direction. The question remains whether these efforts will be enough to mobilize the necessary support and bring about the desired change. The coming months will be crucial in determining the future of Kenya’s political landscape.
