Kalonzo hits out at Ruto, announces start of 2027 poll campaigns

Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has declared that the opposition will soon hit the ground with its campaigns, even as he accused President Ruto of intimidating independent institutions to secure a second term. 

In a press briefing in Nairobi yesterday, Kalonzo said that the opposition would not wait for the reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to start its campaigns ahead of the General Election. 

He added that his campaigns will focus on encouraging the youth to acquire national identification cards and register as voters. 

“We are in the process of organising ourselves. Even before the IEBC is in place, we will hit the ground running. Be ready, we are coming,” he said. 

“President Ruto should immediately put in place the commission’s selection panel. He does not have an excuse... We urge him to move with speed,” he added.

This is despite the Wiper leader lashing out at the President for “early and premature campaigns for 2027 elections under the guise of uniting Kenyans.”

Inappropriate statements

On Wednesday, Kalonzo warned, “We would like to caution Ruto’s allies against making inappropriate statements.

They need to be held accountable, as the country cannot be led by fear and intimidation. They should be aware that they are dealing with enlightened citizens who will take them home in 2027.” 

Kalonzo was accompanied by a section of opposition leaders, including Jubilee Party Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni and DAP-Kenya leader Eugene Wamalwa. 

The leaders condemned the withdrawal of Chief Justice Koome’s security detail and called for immediate reinstatement. 

“This is indicative of attempts to capture and dismantle independent institutions such as the IEBC and the Judiciary. Let him (Ruto) leave the judges alone to perform their duties,” said Kioni. 

“By continuing with abductions, delaying reconstitution of IEBC and intimidation of the Judiciary, the regime is delegitimising the 2027 elections,” said Kalonzo. 

Justice Dola Chepkwony’s ruling on Thursday cleared the way for Parliament to forward the names of nine members to oversee the selection of IEBC commissioners.