Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has condemned the heckling of Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka during the launch of the Linda Mwananchi movement's headquarters in Nairobi, saying political differences should never justify disrespect towards leaders.
Duale described the incident as an affront to the dignity of a statesman and elder, urging political supporters to exercise restraint even when they disagree with their leaders' positions.
“I also condemned the orchestrated heckling of Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, describing it as an affront to the dignity of a statesman and elder who deserves respect. Political differences should never be an excuse for disrespect or public humiliation,” he said.
Kalonzo was heckled on Friday, October 30, while addressing the gathering during the launch, forcing him to pause his speech as a section of the crowd chanted Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna's name.
The incident unfolded as Kalonzo responded to remarks by Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa, who appeared to suggest that Sifuna could be the opposition's presidential candidate.
“Because this is your day, my brother Eugene has jumped the gun. He has declared you the presidential candidate,” Kalonzo said.
He, however, reminded Sifuna that the formal process of identifying the opposition's flag bearer was yet to be concluded.
“Let me tell you legally, because you are a lawyer, you have to wait for the 13th of November, and I hope you'll invite us again. This is when we will know,” Kalonzo said.
He added that the November meeting would provide an opportunity for further discussions on the matter.
“Hapo ndio tutaongea with a fellow presidential candidate. Huyu ako hapa ni party leader,” he said.
As Kalonzo spoke, the crowd broke into chants of Sifuna's name, interrupting his address.
Kalonzo paused and asked the gathering whether they wanted Sifuna to become president, prompting an affirmative response and more chants.
Sifuna eventually walked onto the stage and appealed to the crowd to allow Kalonzo to complete his speech.
The incident has drawn reactions from senior government officials, with Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen also criticising the conduct of the crowd.
Speaking on Saturday at Ngiito in Amalo, Narok Sub-County, where he presided over a women empowerment event, Murkomen accused the Linda Mwananchi faction of political intolerance.
“Linda Mwananchi has no agenda, no manifesto, and now even no respect for fellow leaders,” he said.
Murkomen warned that the incident could signal further political hostility as the country approaches the 2027 General Election.
“You haven't seen a thing. These are masters of political intolerance and violence,” he said.
The Interior CS also extended an invitation to Kalonzo to join the broad-based government, saying his experience and diplomatic standing would be appreciated.
“Kalonzo Musyoka is welcome in government, where his experience and diplomatic experience will be met with honour and respect,” he said.
The exchange has renewed attention on political tolerance and the conduct of supporters at public gatherings as opposition leaders navigate competing ambitions and alliances ahead of the 2027 elections.
