Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has openly accused ODM chief Raila Odinga of betrayal, ruling out any possibility of working with President William Ruto or reuniting politically with Raila. Speaking during an interview on K24 TV on June 30, 2025, Kalonzo said Raila’s unilateral decision to engage with the Kenya Kwanza administration fractured the opposition and undermined the Azimio coalition.
“Despite the sacrifices and loyalty I have shown, Raila went ahead to make his own decision,” Kalonzo said, referring to his support for Raila in three consecutive general elections. He questioned whether Raila had betrayed the Azimio coalition by cooperating with a government the alliance had consistently criticized.
Kalonzo emphasized that the move was made without consultation, leaving key allies politically vulnerable. He expressed frustration at the shifting political dynamics and dismissed speculation that he could be aligning with President Ruto. “If today I am seen with Ruto or Raila, I will also be labelled a betrayer,” he said, underscoring how public perception can distort political intent.
Recalling a past visit to Homa Bay during the anti-government “Zakayo Shuka” protests, Kalonzo said he posed a question to residents: “What should be done if Ruto, nicknamed Zakayo, failed to step down from power and was joined by Raila?” The crowd’s response, “Cut the tree with both Ruto and Raila,” reflected deep public dissatisfaction with the political establishment.
Kalonzo affirmed he would not join any future government arrangement under the Kenya Kwanza banner, even if Raila were to backtrack. “If Raila wants to pull out of the broad-based government, that’s okay, but not for me to join him in government. If he joins the opposition, he must take the queue,” he stated.
The former vice president also condemned the recent acts of police brutality witnessed during nationwide protests. He said he is collaborating with fellow opposition leaders, including Fred Matiang’i, Martha Karua, Jeremiah Kioni, Rigathi Gachagua, and JB Muturi, to document and challenge the excessive use of force on demonstrators.
