A fresh political confrontation has erupted between Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, following claims of violence and disruption during the United Opposition’s tour of Western Kenya.
Kalonzo accused Wetang’ula of orchestrating efforts to derail opposition rallies across key towns in the region. He claimed that violent groups, allegedly sponsored by the state and shielded by riot police, attempted to disrupt their events.
“Speaker Wetang’ula’s state-sponsored goons throwing stones and firing bullets under the protection of riot police did not deter our march to Kitale,” Kalonzo said.
He emphasized that the public’s reception across Butula, Bungoma, Kimilili, Kiminini, and Kitale reflected national dissatisfaction with President William Ruto’s administration.
However, Wetang’ula quickly hit back, refuting the allegations and distancing himself from the events.
“Kalonzo, my brother, stop your misplaced anger and transferred malice. I am in Mombasa. Keep out of your angry politics,” he posted on X. He added, “In case your memory fails you, I was last a constituency MP in 2013!”—suggesting he no longer has direct involvement in local grassroots politics.
The clash comes amid rising political tension, with the United Opposition intensifying its push for reform and accountability from the Kenya Kwanza government. The alliance, which includes key figures like Kalonzo, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i, and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, has faced violent resistance in parts of the region.
Their convoy was attacked in Chwele town by unknown assailants wielding stones, batons, and crude weapons. Gachagua shared images of damaged vehicles, condemning the attack as a threat to democracy.
“Governments that thrive on violence are short-lived and lack legitimacy,” Gachagua warned. “Violence and extrajudicial killings have no place in our society.”
The latest events highlight the deepening divisions between the opposition and the government, with senior state figures now directly drawn into the political fray. As tensions rise, calls for political tolerance and peaceful engagement continue to grow louder.
