Kalonzo dismisses Ruto’s overtures

By Newsflash Reporter

Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has come out strongly to dismiss reports suggesting he is warming up to President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration, describing such claims as “diversionary” and part of a calculated attempt to fracture the Opposition coalition.

In a bold and emotionally charged statement issued on Sunday, June 15, 2025, Kalonzo categorically denied any negotiations or secret meetings with President Ruto’s allies.

“Ignore the news reports. They are diversionary, and a poor attempt to divide the United Opposition,” Kalonzo said. “I cannot work with or meet up with people with Gen Z blood on their hands including that of Albert Ojwang. Kenyans know the truth Mr HalfTam: I will always be on the side of the people.”

The former Vice President’s remarks come in the wake of growing media speculation that State House is quietly trying to bring him into Ruto’s political orbit ahead of the 2027 general election.

Read more: Why Ruto is courting Kalonzo

Over the weekend, several dailies carried reports that the President’s inner circle had been reaching out to Kalonzo in a bid to weaken the Opposition from within.

According to political insiders who spoke to Newsflash, the President’s strategists have long viewed Kalonzo as a possible swing figure whose support could tilt the scales in the competitive 2027 race.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who recently toured parts of Ukambani, is said to have initiated quiet overtures aimed at drawing Kalonzo into the fold.

But Kalonzo, known for his political resilience and calculated caution, has firmly shut the door on any such alliance. His reference to the controversial death of 31-year-old Albert Ojwang—who died in police custody under mysterious circumstances—has struck a chord with many young Kenyans angered by what they see as state-sponsored brutality against Gen Z protesters and dissenters.

Tensions over Ukambani visit

Insiders within government circles revealed that President Ruto has repeatedly postponed a planned tour of the Ukambani region, amid fears of a hostile reception from local leaders and residents who largely support Kalonzo and remain wary of the ruling coalition.

The delay has added to speculation that the President’s team is struggling to penetrate the region politically without Kalonzo’s endorsement.

“There’s a genuine concern in State House that without Kalonzo, the reception could be frosty at best, or even explosive,” said a senior government source who requested anonymity.

The Wiper leader, who has served in various senior government positions over the past two decades, has emerged as one of the most vocal critics of the Kenya Kwanza administration’s handling of economic reforms, youth unrest, and human rights. His statement on Sunday is seen as a reaffirmation of his role in rallying and maintaining a united opposition front.

Kalonzo’s role in Opposition unity

Kalonzo has long been a central figure in Kenya’s opposition politics. A former principal in the Azimio coalition, he was Raila Odinga’s running mate in the 2022 presidential elections.

Since then, he has remained vocal in resisting what he calls “state capture” and “executive overreach” under the Kenya Kwanza government.