Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, leader of the Wiper Democratic Movement, at the centre holding the special certificate he received in recognition of integrity and honesty in his leadership. Photo/Lawrence Ongaro
By Lawrence Ongaro
A peace rally led by Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, the leader of the Wiper Democratic Movement, was held on Saturday, May 23, in Thika town, attracting more than 2,000 people.
During the rally, Kalonzo received a special certificate in recognition of his integrity, respect and commitment to preaching peace.
At the gathering, the Wiper leader criticized the government for failing to lower fuel prices to affordable levels.
“The government should care about citizens because life continues to remain difficult for ordinary Kenyans,” said Kalonzo.
He said that as the country heads toward the 2027 General Election, the government must ensure strong security for every Kenyan to avoid violence.
Call to remember protest victims
Kalonzo also said that on June 25 there would be commemorations for youths who were killed during the June 2024 demonstrations, when young people protested against the Finance Bill budget proposals.
“We clearly understand that many youths were killed and therefore it is important to remember them,” he said.
He added that corruption had become deeply rooted in government and should not be allowed to continue.
Former Attorney General Justin Muturi criticized Hassan Omar and his colleague Kipchumba Murkomen for allegedly targeting one community and attempting to isolate it from other tribes.
Read more: Kalonzo dismisses Ruto’s overtures
Muturi advised the leaders to understand that leadership is about serving citizens and not oppressing or mocking others.
He also accused the government of misusing public funds to promote corruption without considering the welfare of ordinary citizens.
Muturi further called on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to ensure transparency when procuring essential election materials.
Leaders condemn tribal politics
Nyali MP Mohamed Ali, popularly known as “Jicho Pevu,” said Kenya belongs to all communities and there was no need to isolate any group through hate speech and incitement.
“We will not allow a few leaders to spread tribal hatred by threatening certain communities, especially in Mombasa County,” the Nyali MP emphasized.
He warned Hassan Omar against what he described as recent politics of hate and intimidation targeting one community in Mombasa County.
“You citizens should not allow yourselves to be intimidated because this country belongs to all of us, and every Kenyan has the right to live wherever they choose,” said Ali.
He also urged opposition leaders to unite and field one presidential candidate.
Read more: Kalonzo demands Kindiki’s resignation
“If opposition leaders fail to agree on one candidate, citizens will condemn you forever,” he stressed.
Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti also criticized Hassan Omar for allegedly issuing threats against certain communities, especially in the Coast region.
“Such threats are baseless and citizens will not accept being intimidated in the places where they live,” said Ndeti.
She also condemned the killing of women in the country, saying that at least 129 women had been killed in recent days.
Kalonzo was accompanied by other leaders, including Kitui Senator Enock Wambua, Makueni Senator Daniel Maanzo and several other leaders.
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