Businessman and politician Jimi Wanjigi has launched a scathing attack on Wiper Patriotic Front Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, questioning his political influence and long-term relevance in Kenya’s opposition politics.

In a recent interview with a local radio station, which aired on YouTube on Sunday, June 21, 2026, the Safina Party Leader revisited his political history with Kalonzo and Raila Odinga, recalling their cooperation during the 2017 election cycle, when they jointly backed Raila Odinga’s presidential bid.

However, he said Kalonzo’s political trajectory since then has raised serious questions about his leadership capacity.

“Kalonzo is my friend, and he has been in the game a while. I worked together with him in 2017 when we were backing Raila,” Wanjigi said.

Despite acknowledging their past cooperation, Wanjigi argued that Kalonzo has not demonstrated independent political strength or built a firm support base outside Raila Odinga’s influence.

Leadership vacuum

Wanjigi said Kalonzo’s repeated support for the late Raila Odinga in three presidential elections had not translated into a strong personal political footing, particularly in areas considered opposition strongholds.

“Kalonzo, unfortunately, in my view, is not a driver of anything. The man supported Raila in three elections, and yet you don’t hear him having a voice in Raila’s home turf,” he said.

He further claimed that Kalonzo had not consolidated his influence even in regions where Raila Odinga enjoys significant support, suggesting this reflected a deeper leadership challenge.

“You don’t even hear him having a constituency there. It tells you there must be a leadership vacuum in him,” Wanjigi added.

Wanjigi went on to contrast leadership styles, arguing that effective political leaders must build independent structures rather than rely on alliances or endorsements.

“It is like he wants to be given things by people. Drive yourself!” he said.

The remarks are likely to intensify existing tensions within Kenya’s opposition politics, where leaders have been negotiating shifting alliances ahead of the 2027 general election.

Opposition realignments ahead of 2027

Kalonzo remains a key figure in opposition coalitions and has previously served as a presidential running mate in multiple elections. However, debates over leadership direction, succession strategy, and coalition unity have continued to shape political discourse within opposition ranks.

Kalonzo has formally launched his 2027 presidential campaign platform, signalling a major step in the opposition’s efforts to unseat President William Ruto in the next General Election.

The Saturday, June 6, 2026, launch comes amid growing momentum within opposition ranks, although leaders have yet to agree on a single presidential candidate to face Ruto. Kalonzo used the event to outline his vision for the country, positioning himself as a unifying figure capable of steering Kenya through economic and governance challenges.