Constitutional lawyer and political commentator Ndegwa Njiru emphasizes that Wiper Party leader Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka’s enduring political partnership with the late Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga could significantly shape discussions as we approach the 2027 General Election.
In a post on X dated June 27, 2026, Njiru highlighted that Kalonzo has demonstrated unwavering loyalty to Raila for approximately 15 years, even in the face of political challenges, including not being chosen as Raila’s running mate in the 2022 election.
Insights from Lawyer Ndegwa Njiru
In his message, Njiru expressed:
“For 15 solid years, His Excellency Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka has stood by His Excellency Raila Odinga without faltering.
“Despite being overlooked as the preferred running mate in the 2022 General Election, Kalonzo never wavered in his loyalty.”
Njiru argues that Raila’s political support base should acknowledge Kalonzo’s steadfast commitment through numerous election cycles, stating that loyalty deserves recognition and reward. He poses a thought-provoking point:
“If Kalonzo has remained resolute through every political season, why would we turn our backs on him in favor of Kasongo?”
While Njiru’s insights reflect his personal political perspective, he did not provide polling data or other evidence to substantiate his views on the shifting political landscape leading up to the 2027 General Election.
The Partnership Between Raila and Kalonzo
Njiru’s comments draw attention to one of Kenya’s most enduring political alliances. Raila and Kalonzo first joined forces under the Coalition for Reforms and Democracy (CORD) during the 2013 General Election. Official results showed that the Raila-Kalonzo ticket garnered 5,340,546 votes (43.7%), while the Jubilee Alliance of Uhuru Kenyatta and William Ruto received 6,173,433 votes (50.51%).
The duo maintained their collaboration during the 2017 General Election under the National Super Alliance (NASA), with Kalonzo again stepping in as Raila’s running mate. Raila secured approximately 6.78 million votes, about 44.9% of the national total, before the Supreme Court nullified the presidential election, prompting a fresh vote.
In the 2022 General Election, Raila opted for Martha Karua as his running mate under the Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya Coalition. Although Kalonzo did not feature on the presidential ticket, he remained a leading figure in the coalition, actively campaigning throughout the election period. The results indicated that Raila garnered 6,942,930 votes (48.85%), while President William Ruto was declared victorious with 7,176,141 votes (50.49%).
Kalonzo’s Commitment to Supporting Raila
Kalonzo has frequently voiced his commitment to supporting Raila in successive presidential elections. In March 2022, during negotiations within Azimio, he addressed criticism for consistently backing Raila without attaining the presidency himself.
“As we embark on a new round of political negotiations in our country, I felt compelled to share this document in response to the recurring claim that I am an indecisive kingmaker and that it would be foolish to support Odinga a third time,” Kalonzo stated.
Nevertheless, he actively campaigned for the Raila-Karua ticket during the 2022 General Election. Reflecting on the experience months later, Kalonzo remarked:
“I found myself supporting Raila for the third time, but I assure you, I am wiser now. I have learned from my past.”
He continued:
“I expressed my thoughts openly to Raila, clarifying our agreements in writing. I stand ready to support him, and it was the right decision. I am no fool and will never be.”
Looking Ahead to 2027
Njiru’s comments resonate as political leaders position themselves for the 2027 General Election, with Kalonzo viewed as a pivotal figure in the opposition landscape. He has already launched the Komboa Kenya platform to mobilize resources and support in anticipation of the upcoming polls.
While Njiru believes that Kalonzo’s history of political loyalty could emerge in public discourse, it remains uncertain whether voters collectively share this viewpoint or if it will affect electoral outcomes. As seen in past elections, alliances, endorsements, campaign issues, and voter preferences will likely evolve before Kenyans head to the polls.
Ultimately, voting choices will reflect the individual decisions of citizens based on candidates, policies, and the prevailing circumstances at the time of the election.
