Wiper Party Leader and Azimio co-principal Kalonzo Musyoka publicly rejected the list of ODM nominees for parliamentary leadership positions. Addressing members of the press after attending the memorial service of the late Tshazi Okoth at Nairobi Chapel along Ngong Road, Kalonzo emphasized that the proposed names do not reflect the true position of the opposition coalition party, Azimio la Umoja.
Kalonzo’s rejection of the ODM nominees marks a significant moment in the internal dynamics of the Azimio coalition. The Wiper leader expressed his dissatisfaction with the proposals, stating that the leadership of the House is a matter for the entire parliamentary group of Azimio, not just the ODM party. “We will be going for a retreat…the leadership of the House is a matter of the parliamentary group of Azimio not of ODM. It (the proposed names) is not the final decision,” he declared.
The backdrop to this development is the recent nomination of several Azimio leaders to Cabinet positions by President William Ruto. This move necessitated a reshuffle within the opposition ranks, with ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna announcing the party’s intent to replace the outgoing parliamentary leaders. Notably, the current House Minority Chief Whip, Junet Mohamed, was proposed to replace former Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi, who has been nominated to head the Ministry of Energy. Additionally, Suba North lawmaker Millie Odhiambo was nominated to take over Junet’s position in the National Assembly, while Saboti MP Caleb Amisi was proposed to replace Nominated MP John Mbadi as chair of the Public Accounts Committee. Mbadi has been nominated as the Treasury Cabinet Secretary.
Kalonzo’s objection to these nominations highlights the ongoing struggle for influence and representation within the Azimio coalition. He revealed that a retreat would be held to deliberate on the sharing formula for these positions, aiming to ensure that the final decisions reflect the collective will of the coalition. “We will be going for a retreat…the leadership of the House is a matter of the parliamentary group of Azimio not of ODM. It (the proposed names) is not the final decision,” Kalonzo reiterated.
The Wiper leader also stressed that the retreat would serve as an opportunity to discuss the vibrancy and direction of the opposition. He underscored the importance of unity and strategic planning within the coalition, following a consultative meeting attended by Azimio principals, including ODM leader Raila Odinga. “The retreat will also involve discussion on the vibrancy of the opposition and give very clear direction of the opposition,” Kalonzo stated.
Kalonzo’s statements underscore a broader concern within Azimio about maintaining a cohesive and effective opposition front. The recent nominations to Cabinet have prompted a reassessment of the coalition’s internal structure and strategy, with an emphasis on ensuring that all member parties feel adequately represented and involved in decision-making processes.
The rejection of ODM’s nominees and the planned retreat signal a critical juncture for Azimio la Umoja. As the coalition navigates these internal challenges, its leaders must work collaboratively to maintain a united front against the ruling government’s policies and actions. The outcome of the retreat and subsequent decisions will likely shape the future dynamics of the coalition and its ability to effectively represent the opposition in Kenya’s political landscape.
In conclusion, Kalonzo Musyoka’s rejection of ODM’s parliamentary leadership nominees reflects deeper issues of representation and unity within the Azimio coalition. The planned retreat will be a crucial moment for the coalition to address these concerns, realign its strategies, and ensure a cohesive approach to opposition politics. As the political landscape in Kenya continues to evolve, the actions and decisions of Azimio’s leaders will be closely watched by both supporters and opponents alike.
