Kalonzo writes to registrar over rebrand plans as Wiper set for strategic political shift

The bold strategic rebranding move was sanctioned by the party’s National Executive Committee meeting last week.

The letter to registrar Ann Nderitu, the Star has established, communicates the intention to change the name and symbols of the outfit.

The party also seeks to amend its constitution to align it with the new realities.

The party has submitted three names to Nderitu’s office.

Wiper secretary general Senator Shakila Abdalla confirmed the submission of the names, saying Kenyans should expect a fresh outfit that has room for the country’s diverse population.

She said Wiper will be retained in the list plus the party’s identity colour – blue.

“Yes, we have submitted the names and waiting for further communication from the registrar,” she said.

Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo told the Star the party will make the name public once the registrar makes approval.

“We have to change the name first before we announce. If you announce too early somebody can play games on us,” Maanzo told the Star on the phone.

“We had three proposals, so they will look at the reservations just in case one or two is rejected then we don’t have challenges.”

Wiper secretary legal affairs Eunice Lumalas told the Star they will also be reviewing the constitution of the party during this rebranding period.

The Office of the Registrar of Political Parties is expected to review the proposed changes in accordance with the Political Parties Act.

If approved, Wiper could unveil its new identity in a month's time – according to party insiders.

The rebranding plans signal Kalonzo’s latest manoeuvre to assert himself as a key presidential contender.

It also comes amid mounting pressure for opposition leaders to form a unified front against the Kenya Kwanza administration, led by President William Ruto.

On Thursday, ex-Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua unveiled his Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) in readiness for epic battle with Ruto.

Martha Karua, who is a member of the yet-to-be unveiled opposition coalition, also had Narc-Kenya rebranded to the People's Liberation Party (PLP).

Kalonzo’s troops have maintained that while they will urge the opposition principals to adopt consensus to pick one of their own to fly the flag, their leader would not play second fiddle.

“This time round Kalonzo will be on the ballot. Everyone knows he is the most sober and experienced leader in this country and he will not play second fiddle,” Maanzo said.

Former powerful CS Fred Mataing’i is another key figure in the opposition team, who is expected to challenge the likes of Kalonzo for the joint presidential ticket.

The former Interior Minister is expected to join the former ruling Jubilee party.

Known for his tough stance on security, governance and public service reform, Matiang’i was one of the most influential figures in the Uhuru Cabinet.

His reputation as a decisive and effective administrator has amplified the calls for his return to the national stage.

In the 2013 and 2017 elections, Kalonzo shelved his presidential ambitions and, instead, became Raila’s running mate.

In 2022, he relinquished the running mate slot to Karua, following the manoeuvre to appeal to the Mt Kenya region.

In all the elections, Kalonzo delivered his Lower Eastern vote bloc to Raila, steadying the opposition leader’s candidature, although he was defeated.