- Musyoka criticizes Ruto’s government for “budgeted corruption” and heavy taxation.
- He urges Odinga to reject a rumored Prime Minister post and instead lead the opposition.
- Ruto’s coalition faces internal cracks, with Gachagua’s impeachment deepening divisions.
- Opposition leaders strategize to counter Ruto’s grip ahead of the 2027 elections.
Kalonzo Musyoka’s Warning to Odinga
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has issued a stern warning to ODM leader Raila Odinga, urging him to resist aligning with President William Ruto. Musyoka accused Ruto’s administration of engaging in “budgeted corruption” and enforcing a “payslip raid” that has slashed workers’ earnings by nearly 50% due to punitive taxes.
Speaking to opposition supporters, Musyoka emphasized that Odinga’s long-standing fight for democracy would be tarnished if he collaborated with Ruto. He stressed that such a move would alienate Odinga’s loyal base and undermine his legacy as a defender of the people.
“How can he lose all that by siding with dictators?” Musyoka questioned.
With Odinga set to leave his African Union Commission (AUC) role, Musyoka argued that the ODM leader faces two choices—revive a rebranded Azimio la Umoja coalition or accept a rumored Prime Minister position in Ruto’s government. Musyoka dismissed the latter option as a selfish move that would prioritize “personal benefits” over the people’s aspirations.
“Even if ODM joins Ruto, we shall remain stronger,” Musyoka vowed, pointing to recent opposition victories, such as blocking the controversial Adani energy deals, as proof of their resilience.
Ruto’s Coalition Under Pressure
Musyoka’s remarks come at a crucial moment when Ruto’s ruling coalition is showing signs of internal strain. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment—pushed by Odinga’s allies—has exposed deep divisions within the Kenya Kwanza government. Political analysts argue that Odinga’s next move could either strengthen Ruto’s legitimacy or turbocharge the opposition heading into the 2027 elections.
“The ODM holds the key,” Musyoka asserted, suggesting that Odinga’s close ally, Junet Mohammed, could act as a political proxy if the ODM leader chooses not to engage directly.
Building a United Opposition
Musyoka has positioned himself as a key figure in the opposition, calling for unity to “rescue Kenya” from Ruto’s administration. His recent political maneuvers—including an alliance with Gachagua and other emerging opposition leaders—suggest a strategic escalation in the 2027 race.
However, as the opposition consolidates its forces, the biggest question remains: Will Odinga heed the call to remain in the opposition, or will he take Ruto’s offer and reshape Kenya’s political landscape once again?
