Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka speaking at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi on July 9, 2024. PHOTO: Courtesy
In Summary:
1) Kalonzo Musyoka appointed to lead Azimio la Umoja coalition
2) Azimio criticizes ODM members joining Ruto’s cabinet as “betrayal”
Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka was chosen on Thursday, July 25, to lead the Azimio la Umoja- One Kenya coalition.
Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni announced that current Azimio Leader Raila Odinga is busy campaigning for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson position.
The coalition clarified that members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) joined President William Ruto’s cabinet as individuals, without the coalition’s agreement to engage in dialogue with the President.
“We are grateful to Raila Odinga for his leadership since the coalition’s inception. As his campaign for the AUC leadership enters a crucial stage next week, we wish him success in his continental ambitions,” Kioni explained, justifying Kalonzo’s new role.
“Kalonzo Musyoka has been guiding us while Raila pursues the African Union leadership. We have resolved that he will continue to lead us, allowing Raila to focus on his AUC campaign.”
Regarding the ODM members’ nominations to Ruto’s cabinet, Kioni emphasized that the coalition had not approved this move.
Azimio criticized Ruto’s actions, describing them as detrimental to Kenya’s multiparty system and contrary to the Constitution and the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) recommendations.
In support of Kenyans opposing the new cabinet nominees, the Kalonzo-led team emphasized the country’s need for genuine reforms instead of recycling politicians into top government positions.
“We will not participate in the proposed broad-based government of national unity, as it betrays Kenyans, especially the younger generations,” Kioni stated, outlining the coalition’s stance.
The coalition condemned ODM members who accepted cabinet positions, calling it a betrayal of the 70 Kenyans who died during the June and July anti-government protests.
“Those members joining Ruto’s cabinet are doing so in their individual capacities,” Azimio stated during the press conference.
Notably, no ODM member attended the press conference, nor was any apology issued.