Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has sharply criticised Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka for missing the 2025 Mashujaa Day celebrations held at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County on Monday, October 20, 2025.

In a post on X, Cherargei accused Kalonzo of cowardice and unpatriotic behavior, as the nation gathered to honor its heroes. The event, presided over by President William Ruto, saw a massive turnout from Ukambani residents, with Kalonzo’s absence drawing particular attention.

Cherargei cites political motives

Cherargei did not hold back in his remarks, stating, “Kalonzo is a coward of the century; by skipping the Mashujaa Day national celebrations that was unpatriotic to the country yet all Ukambani are attending in mammoth crowds.”

He further cited that Kalonzo had “run away to the United Kingdom (UK) to hide but came back because of Jakom funeral,” suggesting the opposition leader’s return was tied to the burial of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on October 19, 2025, in Bondo, Siaya County. Cherargei added, “He must have confused the event because this is a national celebration not a political rally,” implying Kalonzo misjudged the occasion’s significance.

He also questioned Kalonzo’s nationalist credentials, saying, “He pretends to be a nationalist and patriotic but he cannot honour a national holiday to celebrate our national heroes.”

Opposition absence highlights political tensions

Despite the absence, Kalonzo penned a tribute to Raila Odinga, his former running mate, praising the late leader’s resilience and dedication to democracy.

In his message, Kalonzo wrote, “Years of detention did not stop you. The torture chambers did not faze you. The agony of bungled and stolen elections did not crush you,” and described Raila as “Kenya’s Shujaa,” urging citizens to honor his legacy: “From your perch at the mountaintop, I wish you and all Kenyans of goodwill a Happy Mashujaa Day.”

Cherargei, meanwhile, praised the turnout, stating, “Thank you Kitui residents and Ukambani nation for warm and heroic reception to President Ruto and guests and hosting this national event to celebrate our national heroes.”

The newly constructed Ithookwe Stadium hosted the event amid nationwide mourning following Raila Odinga’s death on October 15, 2025, in India, highlighting regional support for Ruto’s administration and contrasting with the opposition’s partial boycott of the national festivities.