Wiper Democratic Movement–Kenya leader Kalonzo Musyoka arrived back in the country on Friday morning, October 17, after cutting short his 10-day official visit to the United Kingdom following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Speaking to journalists at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Kalonzo said he was still struggling to come to terms with the devastating loss of his long-time political ally and friend. “The reality of Raila’s passing is yet to fully sink in. Kenya has lost a true patriot,” he said.
The Wiper Party leader is expected to join thousands of Kenyans and dignitaries attending Raila’s State Funeral Service at Nyayo Stadium. Upon his arrival, Kalonzo was received by several Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF) leaders, including Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti, Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jnr, Kitui Senator Enock Kiio Wambua, and Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo, among others.
Kalonzo had been scheduled to embark on a high-profile tour of the UK from Wednesday, where he was to address the London Political Summit and Awards at the UK Parliament, deliver a lecture at Oxford University, and hold talks with leaders at Chatham House and the Commonwealth Secretariat.
The relationship between Raila and Kalonzo has been both complex and defining in Kenya’s political history. The two first parted ways in 2007, when Raila led the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) while Kalonzo formed ODM–Kenya, with the election eventually won by Mwai Kibaki.
In 2013, Kalonzo joined Raila as his running mate under the Coalition for Reforms and Democracy (CORD), and they reunited again in 2017 under the National Super Alliance (NASA). Despite both elections ending in disputed losses to Uhuru Kenyatta, their partnership remained significant.
In the 2022 General Election, Kalonzo initially hinted at running independently but later backed Raila under the Azimio la Umoja coalition, reinforcing their enduring political alliance.
As the nation prepares to bid farewell to Raila Odinga, Kalonzo’s return underscores the deep bond and respect between the two veteran leaders.
