In Summary:
1) Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka has been declared the new Azimio leader.
2) The decision follows ODM’s alleged cooperation with the government in a broad-based government of national unity..
3) Kalonzo Musyoka affirms his commitment to the opposition, rejecting rumors of joining the government.
The division within the Azimio coalition has intensified as a group of Azimio leaders named Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka their new leader after the ODM party decided to collaborate with the government in a broad-based government of national unity.
Despite ODM’s denial of claims that it is joining the government, Kalonzo Musyoka, Jeremiah Kioni, and Eugene Wamalwa announced that ODM has been released from the Azimio fold.
On Friday, leaders from Wiper, DAP-K, and Jubilee Party visited Othaya, Nyeri County, signaling a renewed opposition movement after ODM’s top figures joined President William Ruto’s cabinet.
Speaking a day after Martha Karua’s Narc Kenya exited the Azimio coalition, the leaders affirmed Musyoka as their new leader.
“We have decided as Azimio to let Raila go to the AU and now Kalonzo Musyoka is our leader,” said Wamalwa.
Kioni added, “This is our stance, Kalonzo Musyoka will lead us in this journey to defend Kenyans.”
The Wiper leader rejected claims that he was offered the Attorney General position by President Ruto, dismissing it as a demotion.
“Mimi nimekuwa vice president wa Kibaki hapa halafu mnasema nipatiwe nikuwe AG…hiyo ni kujishusha kiasi gani?” Kalonzo remarked.
Kitui Senator Enock Wambua stated, “Kalonzo is not ready to join your government. Just make the remaining appointments and leave Kalonzo out.”
Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka speaking in Githunguri Constituency on April 24. Photo: Kalonzo Musyoka
Kalonzo expressed his commitment to maintaining the opposition role and holding President Ruto’s new government accountable.
“Ruto kuanzia leo ajue mimi nitaanguka naye…ikuwe wazi nitaanguka na Zakayo,” said Kalonzo.
The Azimio leaders also criticized the newly nominated cabinet, accusing it of betraying the protesters’ wishes.