As Kenya gears up for the 2027 general elections, the Wiper Party, under the leadership of Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, is making a strategic move to solidify its presence and influence across the nation. The party has announced an ambitious plan to recruit five million new members, signaling its intent to become a formidable force in the upcoming polls.
The recruitment campaign will be driven by a door-to-door strategy, aimed at engaging directly with potential new members across various regions of the country. The initiative is designed to strengthen the party’s grassroots support and enhance its visibility and influence as the opposition party in Kenya’s political landscape.
Young Wiper Democrats Secretary General Mbula Mutula, speaking at a press conference in Thika, emphasized the party’s focus on appealing to the younger generation, particularly Gen-Z voters. Mutula highlighted that Wiper is uniquely positioned to resonate with Kenyans, especially the youth, given its commitment to addressing issues pertinent to this demographic.
“We are the only party in Kenya that truly resonates with the young generation. Our recruitment drive is not just about increasing our numbers but about building a movement that reflects the aspirations and concerns of Kenyans, particularly the youth,” Mutula said.
Currently, Wiper holds the position of the official opposition party following the strategic shift by the Raila Odinga-led Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). ODM’s decision to collaborate with the Kenya Kwanza administration, which led to several top ODM politicians joining President William Ruto’s cabinet, created a vacuum in the opposition space that Wiper is poised to fill.
Mutula asserted that Wiper’s role as the opposition is crucial for holding the government accountable. The recruitment drive is thus seen as a vital step in fortifying the party’s capacity to effectively challenge the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and advocate for the interests of Kenyans.
In a bid to ensure the success of the recruitment campaign, Young Wiper Democrats has undergone significant leadership changes. The new leadership, which includes Nixon Birundu as Chairman, Mbula Mutula as Secretary General, Catherine Wambua as Treasurer, and Benedict Ngubao as Organising Secretary, is poised to spearhead the campaign with a renewed vigor and inclusivity.
Birundu expressed confidence in the campaign’s potential, underscoring the strategic door-to-door approach that will be employed. “We have a dedicated team ready to reach out to every corner of this country. Our goal is to enlist new members who are passionate about championing the rights and interests of Kenyans,” Birundu stated.
The recruitment drive is not only about increasing the party’s membership but also about galvanizing support for Kalonzo Musyoka’s presidential bid in 2027. Birundu believes that the campaign will be instrumental in positioning Musyoka as a viable alternative to the current administration and propelling him to the presidency.
Additionally, Wiper is placing a strong emphasis on empowering women to take on leadership roles in the forthcoming elections. This initiative aligns with the party’s broader goal of fostering gender inclusivity and ensuring that women have a significant presence in Kenyan politics.
As the 2027 elections approach, Wiper’s recruitment drive represents a critical effort to consolidate its position and build a robust political force. With a focus on youth engagement, strategic outreach, and inclusivity, the party is setting the stage for a competitive electoral battle and aiming to become a significant player in Kenya’s political future.
In summary, Wiper Party’s ambitious plan to recruit five million new members reflects a strategic effort to enhance its influence and prepare for a strong showing in the 2027 elections. Through a targeted campaign and a renewed leadership team, the party aims to strengthen its role as the opposition and advance its vision for Kenya’s future.