Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has hit out at the government for allegedly denying the United Opposition an opportunity to speak during the State Funeral of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Speaking on Friday, October 17, Kalonzo expressed disappointment that despite the funeral being a national event, opposition leaders were not given a platform to address mourners. He argued that the decision went against Raila’s lifelong advocacy for democracy and inclusivity.
“It is unfortunate, because it is a State Funeral. They should have actually recognised the United Opposition to say something,” Kalonzo said. “That is what Raila Odinga would have wished to happen. But you can see the way (Deputy President) Kindiki tried to announce some of us, nobody could hear.”
Kalonzo was among several United Opposition leaders, including Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa, Fred Matiang’i, Justin Muturi, and Mukhisa Kituyi, who attended the funeral service at Nyayo National Stadium.
The former vice president revealed that he had cancelled his planned 10-day trip to the United Kingdom to attend the funeral, returning to Nairobi early Friday morning. Upon arrival, he received Tanzanian dignitaries, including former president Jakaya Kikwete and vice president Philip Mpango, who came to pay their respects.
Notably, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was absent from the event, sparking speculation about his whereabouts.
Kalonzo, who previously served as Raila’s running mate in the 2013 and 2017 elections, reiterated the United Opposition’s commitment to continuing Raila’s legacy and challenging President William Ruto’s administration in the 2027 General Election.
“The United Opposition remains unbowed in the quest to restore true democracy and defend the ideals Raila stood for,” he affirmed.
