Kalonzo rules out becoming a running mate in 2027

By Newsflash Repoter

Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has firmly ruled out becoming anyone’s running mate in the 2027 elections, declaring it is “now or never” for his presidential bid.

Speaking during a live interview on Citizen TV, Kalonzo dismissed speculation that he might back another opposition figure as he has done in the past. He noted that after years of supporting other candidates, including ODM leader Raila Odinga, he was determined to be the opposition flagbearer this time.

“Of course I am going for the presidency. It’s obvious. In my view, it is now or never. If I don’t go for it now, I will never go for it,” he said.

Kalonzo stressed that the first step was to secure endorsement from his own Wiper Party during its delegates’ conference scheduled for October 10. Only after that, he said, would he engage with fellow opposition leaders on a joint ticket.

“There is a notion that I will join Kenya Kwanza, but I want to tell them, it’s too late for any games to be played against me. I have sacrificed, but I can’t sacrifice enough,” he added.

Opposition tensions ahead of 2027

Kalonzo’s declaration is expected to complicate negotiations within the opposition, where multiple figures have expressed interest in challenging President William Ruto. Among them is former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who has been vocal about his ambition, saying he is the best positioned to defeat Ruto.

To manage competing ambitions, the opposition has set up a technical committee to identify the most viable candidate. Reports suggest the panel has narrowed the field to four names, with a retreat planned to resolve tensions and forge a unified front.

The opposition coalition includes Kalonzo, Gachagua, former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, Democratic Party chief Justin Muturi, and NARC-Kenya leader Martha Karua.

Gachagua’s conditions for Mt Kenya support

Meanwhile, Gachagua has unveiled tough conditions for any candidate seeking to secure the more than seven million votes from the Mt Kenya region. He demanded formal agreements, signed affidavits, and public commitments to key issues such as repealing unpopular taxes, reforming education and healthcare, and addressing historical injustices.

According to him, candidates must also publicly declare opposition to the Kenya Kwanza administration, participate in grassroots barazas, and coordinate campaigns through his Democratic Congress Party and allied formations.

He cautioned that if no contender meets the threshold, he is ready to launch his own presidential bid. “Every discussion must be about amassing a majority to unseat President Ruto,” he said.

The dual pronouncements by Kalonzo and Gachagua highlight the growing fault lines within the opposition, which now faces the challenge of balancing ambition, regional interests, and unity ahead of 2027.