Only Kalonzo can challenge Ruto in 2027, says MP Makau

Mavoko MP Patrick Makau addressing the public at Mlolongo chief's compound in Athi River, Machakos county on January 9, 2026/HANDOUT

Mavoko MP Patrick Makau has urged leaders of the United opposition to rally behind Wiper Democratic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka as their flag bearer ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Makau said the Wiper leader is well-positioned to match President William Ruto, noting that strong support could boost his chances in the polls.

“I tell leaders of the United opposition, we have no jokes. It’s only Kalonzo Musyoka who has been tested, tried... So, if we let him contest against Ruto, we would be hopeful,” Makau said.

He spoke on Friday while presiding over the issuance of National Constituency Development Fund school bursary forms to vulnerable parents and guardians from Mlolongo and Athi River wards in Machakos County.

The MP said Sh40 million worth of bursary forms had been issued across the two wards, each receiving Sh20 million. He added that a total of Sh70 million had been allocated to the entire constituency, with Muthwani and Kinanie wards receiving Sh15 million each.

Makau warned that the opposition’s chances could be weakened if another candidate besides Kalonzo were fielded.

“Tukishikwa na tamaa na tuseme….oooo….oooo, we would be divided and defeated. We are going to support the United Opposition,” he said.

He also called for respect among elected Wiper Democratic Front leaders.

Makau said the party had agreed to field candidates for political positions across the country in 2027.

“We have said that as the Wiper party, we will have MPs in Nairobi, Mombasa, everywhere. Wiper will have a governor candidate in Nairobi, senators, MCAs, MPs, all over the country,” he said.

He added: “Wiper will field candidates in all political positions in all parts of the country. We are behind Kalonzo and will support him to the end.”

Makau criticised a recent private survey showing Kalonzo with 8 per cent support, calling it shambolic.

“We can’t allow that. They are meant to discredit Kalonzo,” he said.

He urged Kalonzo to allow the electorate to decide who their leaders should be across the country.

Makau, who has declared his bid for the Machakos gubernatorial seat in 2027, called for free and fair Wiper Democratic Front party nominations ahead of the general election.

“Don’t interfere with our matters. Let’s compete among ourselves; we struggle inside there. The issue of saying that sitting governors can’t be denied a party ticket, we don’t want that. We want free and fair nominations in Wiper,” he said.

“We are going to fight there. We will support the united opposition,” he added.