Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo has revealed the Wiper Party’s intentions to form a political alliance with ousted Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in preparation for the 2027 General Election. Speaking on Citizen TV on Thursday, Maanzo claimed that cracks within the Azimio-One Kenya coalition, particularly between Wiper and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), could lead to a significant political realignment.
“Wiper will form an alliance with Rigathi Gachagua. We will create a coalition that will secure 50+1 in the first round,” Maanzo asserted. He attributed the rift to ODM’s rapprochement with President William Ruto’s administration, which he believes deviated from Azimio’s core opposition mandate.
ODM, led by Raila Odinga, reportedly eased tensions with the government following anti-government protests in June 2024. This move, according to Maanzo, marked a turning point, as Wiper and ODM began to diverge politically. However, he expressed openness to collaboration should ODM decide to rejoin their path.
ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna dismissed Maanzo’s remarks, urging him to exercise caution. “The coalition remains intact, and such declarations must come from the top leadership Kalonzo and Raila,” Sifuna stated, emphasizing unity within Azimio.
The speculation of an alliance was fueled by Gachagua, who recently acknowledged Kalonzo’s loyalty to the Mt. Kenya region during the late President Mwai Kibaki’s tenure. Gachagua declared that “the mountain owes Kalonzo a debt,” signaling a potential political collaboration.
Kalonzo has expressed confidence in his 2027 presidential bid, vowing to challenge President Ruto with renewed vigor. While Odinga has not declared his intentions for 2027, his focus remains on securing the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship in February 2025, when Moussa Faki’s term ends.
With shifting allegiances and Azimio’s internal dynamics under scrutiny, the road to the 2027 General Election promises to be a high-stakes contest, potentially reshaping Kenya’s political landscape.
