By TWV Political Editor
As the 2027 Kenyan general elections approach, the opposition’s quest for a unified candidate to challenge President William Ruto is increasingly fraught with discord, casting doubt on its cohesion and the future role of Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka.
While some within the opposition view Kalonzo as the most credible man to face President Ruto, others advocate for Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua or former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang’i. Sources indicate that Kalonzo’s allies are urging him to consider an independent presidential bid or, alternatively, an alliance with President Ruto should he be overlooked as the opposition’s flagbearer.
The candidacy of Gachagua could prove pivotal. If the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) clears him to run under the Democratic Congress Party (DCP), Kalonzo is unlikely to accept a subordinate role as his running mate. In such a scenario, he might opt for an independent campaign or, feeling sidelined, align with Ruto.
Kalonzo is acutely aware that a fragmented opposition, with multiple presidential candidates, would make it easy for Ruto to secure a re-election. Joining forces with the President could offer Kalonzo a prominent government role, sparing him another five years in opposition.
For Kalonzo, 2027 is a defining moment in his political career. His supporters argue that, having previously stepped aside for ODM leader Raila Odinga, he should no longer accept a secondary role. The critical question remains: will Kalonzo yield once again, and if so, to whom?
Despite his seniority, political experience, and age, Kalonzo faces rivals with greater financial resources and organisational strength, raising concerns about his capacity to sustain a robust independent campaign.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta reportedly sees Kalonzo as a potential compromise candidate, possibly paired with Matiang’i as a running mate, should Gachagua pursue his own presidential bid. Uhuru is also said to be strategising to weaken Gachagua’s influence in the Mount Kenya region by elevating Matiang’i within the Jubilee Party. Insiders suggest Uhuru might even support a coalition involving Kalonzo, Matiang’i, and Ruto to isolate Gachagua politically, potentially securing Ruto a first-round victory in 2027 while reshaping the opposition landscape.
For now, the opposition remains deeply divided. Gachagua contends that only a financially robust candidate can challenge Ruto, urging Kalonzo and Matiang’i to step aside in his favour. Kalonzo’s supporters, however, firmly reject this, insisting their leader deserves the top position.
As the 2027 elections draw nearer, the opposition’s unity and Kalonzo’s next steps will be under intense scrutiny. Whether he chooses to run independently or aligns with Ruto or remains within the opposition fold, his decision will significantly influence the opposition’s trajectory and Kenya’s political future.
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