Why Kalonzo’s bold gambit could redefine 2027 polls
By Faith Lagat, September 25, 2025Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF) leader Kalonzo Musyoka’s firm declaration to contest Kenya’s presidency in 2027, rather than settle for a running mate role, marks a significant moment in the country’s political landscape.
His pronouncements, including a rejection of speculation about joining President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza coalition or supporting another candidate, signal a strategic repositioning that could reshape coalition dynamics and influence the next general election.
This move draws on Kalonzo’s decades-long political journey, his rebranding efforts and his appeal to younger voters, positioning him as a serious contender in an increasingly crowded opposition field.
Kalonzo’s September 24, 2025, interview on a local TV station underscored his focus on the presidency. Dismissing narratives that he might again play second fiddle, he stated, “I don’t think I would be a running mate in 2027. Some of my supporters, a majority of them, and that is why this administration is vexed with the dream that Kalonzo Musyoka will join Kenya Kwanza; the bloggers are on a full-scale mandate to make it happen, but I tell them, ‘Please stop wasting your time.’”
This stance departs from his past roles as a running mate in the 2007, 2013 and 2017 elections alongside former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. His insistence on leading rather than supporting reflects a calculated attempt to assert his political agency and capitalise on his experience as a coalition builder.
During the interview, the former vice president spoke about a career marked by personal sacrifice. “In my entire personality, I have sacrificed, but I can’t sacrifice enough for this country,” he said, signalling that his ambition for the top seat is non-negotiable. Kalonzo frames his candidacy as part of a “higher idea” to restore hope and stability, presenting himself as a unifying figure within the emerging United Opposition.
This loose formation includes leaders such as former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i and Democratic Action Party (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa. His refusal to join Kenya Kwanza, despite overtures from allies of President Ruto like Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, underscores his commitment to opposition politics and his critique of the current regime’s governance.
Rebranding and youth appeal
Kalonzo’s rebranding of his party from the Wiper Democratic Movement to the Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF) on August 1, 2025, is designed to broaden its appeal, particularly among Kenya’s youth. Inspired by the 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests led by Gen Z, he has positioned WPF as a party that resonates with younger voters. “The party now has a new face; Wiper is going national,” he declared during a tour in Emali, Makueni County, on June 28, 2025.
By emphasising patriotism and inclusivity, the rebrand aims to consolidate opposition forces and attract a new voter base ahead of 2027. His call for Gen Z to join WPF reflects an understanding of the youth’s growing influence in Kenyan politics — a demographic that could prove decisive in the upcoming elections.
The fallout with Raila Odinga, a long-time ally, adds another layer to Kalonzo’s strategy. In a September 10, 2025, podcast appearance, Kalonzo recounted how Raila, accompanied by National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohammed, informed him at his Karen home that he was being dropped as the 2022 running mate in favour of Martha Karua.
Raila cited professional advice that Karua’s candidacy would energise the Mount Kenya region and garner support from women, NGOs and civil society. Kalonzo’s candid response, that this decision reinforced why some Kenyans believe Raila would never become president, revealed lingering tensions. Despite initially resisting, Kalonzo accepted the decision but now uses this experience to underscore his resolve to lead rather than follow.
Building an independent path
Kalonzo’s rejection of an invitation to ODM’s 20th anniversary celebration on October 10, 2025, further illustrates his determination to chart an independent path. Citing a scheduling conflict with WPF’s National Delegates Conference, he declined to attend, signalling a strategic distancing from ODM as he builds his own coalition.
His remarks about Raila’s invitation, coupled with his assertion that he consults and prays before making political moves, reflect a deliberate approach to leadership that contrasts with the fluidity of past alliances.
Support from figures such as Embakasi East MP Babu Owino bolsters Kalonzo’s position. On September 3, 2025, Owino questioned why Kalonzo and Karua, who supported ODM in previous elections, are now viewed negatively by some within the party.
“Kalonzo supported us for three terms: 2013, 2017, and 2022. Martha was our deputy. Is it wrong to support them?” Owino asked, reinforcing Kalonzo’s credibility as a loyal opposition figure now seeking a mandate of his own.
Still, Kalonzo’s gambit faces challenges. The United Opposition is crowded with ambitious leaders, and coalition talks will test his ability to unify disparate factions. His rejection of Kenya Kwanza’s overtures may limit options for strategic alliances, while his past sacrifices could be used by opponents to question his decisiveness. Yet his rebranding, focus on youth engagement and firm stance on leading the opposition position him as a central figure in the 2027 race.
By dismissing the running mate role and emphasising a national vision, Kalonzo Musyoka is seeking to redefine Kenya’s political narrative and potentially alter the trajectory of the next general election.