Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka voiced strong criticism regarding the ongoing meetings held by Azimio principals, including Kalonzo Musyoka (Wiper) and Eugene Wamalwa (DAP-K). Onyonka’s comments come at a time of significant political shifts in Kenya, with the opposition facing internal strife and realignment, particularly following the apparent shift of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) into the government fold.
Senator Onyonka, a prominent voice in Kenyan politics, characterized the recent press briefings and meetings held by the Azimio coalition as a “waste of time.” He expressed frustration over what he perceives as futile efforts by Kalonzo Musyoka and Eugene Wamalwa to address issues that he believes are no longer relevant given the changing political landscape. His remarks underline the growing tension and confusion within the opposition bloc as it grapples with the reality of ODM’s apparent alignment with President William Ruto’s government.
“My honest feeling is that these statements about the issues are a waste of time,” Onyonka declared. “The horse has bolted. ODM has joined government. I don’t see why Kalonzo or Wamalwa still hold meetings.” This statement reflects Onyonka’s view that the political landscape has irrevocably changed, and continued efforts by some Azimio leaders to criticize or oppose the government may no longer serve a meaningful purpose.
Onyonka’s comments reveal a deeper frustration with the state of opposition politics in Kenya. He questioned the value of ongoing discussions that, in his opinion, no longer address the core issues of the current political environment. “I feel so frustrated because what is it that they are asking for, and some of these political marriages you can’t force them,” he lamented. His frustration is evident as he calls for Kalonzo Musyoka and Eugene Wamalwa to reconsider their political strategies in light of the new government dynamics.
The senator’s remarks also touch on the broader implications of ODM’s shift. Onyonka suggested that with ODM’s integration into the government, the role and effectiveness of the Azimio coalition as an opposition force are in question. Despite this, he reaffirmed his commitment to oversight, stating that he would continue to hold the government accountable regardless of his political affiliations. “I will oversight Mbadi, I will talk about what he does if he’s wrong and I will congratulate him if he does what is right,” Onyonka said, indicating his dedication to maintaining a check on government actions.
This criticism comes amidst growing speculation about sharp divisions within the Azimio coalition. There have been increasing calls from some leaders within Azimio for ODM to officially separate from the coalition and fully integrate into the government. These leaders question Raila Odinga’s commitment to the opposition and his role in the shifting political landscape.
In response to these tensions, ODM leaders have defended Raila Odinga, emphasizing that attempts to use him as a pawn in internal party politics are unacceptable. ODM chairperson Gladys Wanga, addressing the situation, declared, “We will not accept any continued attempts to use Raila Odinga as a human shield, any continued attempt to arm-twist him into endorsing anybody at this stage, or any continued attempt to use him as an excuse for the failure of leadership in individual constituent parties of Azimio.”
The current political climate in Kenya is marked by realignments and strategic shifts, as the country navigates through a period of significant change. Onyonka’s critique highlights the challenges faced by opposition leaders as they adapt to new political realities and the pressures of maintaining relevance and effectiveness in a rapidly evolving environment. The ongoing debates within Azimio and the broader opposition underscore the complexities of Kenyan politics and the difficulties in managing shifting allegiances and expectations.
