Kalonzo: I knew Raila’s mind, he was not for broad-based government

Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka during an interview on Citizen TV on March 29 /HANDOUT

Wiper leader and Azimio coalition chief Kalonzo Musyoka has said he understood the late Raila Odinga’s approach to government formation, stressing that the former prime minister was not in favour of a broad-based government.

Speaking at his Karen headquarters during a live interview on Sunday, Kalonzo reflected on his long political relationship with Raila, describing key allies such as Orengo and Anyang’ Nyong’o as reflections of the late leader’s thinking.

“I spent a sizeable chunk of my political life working with Raila Odinga, and I knew his mind, and that is why I went to mourn him in my own way when he passed on. I happen to know he was not for this broad-based government,” he said.

Kalonzo, who formally announced he will run for president in the 2027 elections, criticised the current administration over what he described as a culture of impunity and misuse of power.

He said young Kenyans have been particularly affected, citing incidents where demonstrators were shot during protests.

“You cannot compensate monetarily for a life lost. Young people with the whole future ahead of them were killed peacefully demonstrating, and that is why this election is revolutionary. We must conclude the revolution started by the youth in 2023,” he said.

He also highlighted what he sees as a problem with governance under President William Ruto, saying the head of state has often violated constitutional norms.

“When you have a president calling his deputy a murderer, you wonder whether we are in a democratic country,” Kalonzo said, referring to past public insults.

He added that his administration would restore respect for constitutionalism, law and order, and ensure the police act as servants of the people.

Kalonzo laid out key pillars of his agenda, including education reform, tax simplification, and investor confidence.

He criticised the current government’s handling of health, infrastructure, and the economy.

“A country that cannot be predictable in its tax regime cannot attract investors. We will create an environment for this country to prosper and get back on the road to Vision 2030,” he said.

On electoral issues, Kalonzo said the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) must manage a free, transparent, and credible election in 2027.

He criticised the continued use of Smartmatic technology and warned against the manipulation of the voter roll. He urged Kenyans to register and exercise their constitutional right to vote.

Kalonzo also explained that his presidential bid has the backing of his party and a coalition he is forming.

 “I will be the first among equals if my colleagues take that decision,” he said.

The former vice president described his campaign as rooted in experience and integrity, promising leadership that respects the constitution, upholds the rule of law, and provides a platform for youth empowerment.

“The country deserves a government run under the Constitution and by God-fearing leaders,” he said.