The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo has dismissed any possibility of Wiper Democratic Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka joining President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza government ahead of the 2027 general election.
Speaking to Citizen TV on Thursday morning, Maanzo — a close ally of Kalonzo — said there was no active engagement between the Wiper leader and Ruto regarding a potential political alliance, despite reports suggesting some within Kenya Kwanza were interested in bringing him on board. He said Kalonzo had made his position clear during a recent meeting between the two.
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While acknowledging media reports of efforts by certain Kenya Kwanza legislators to court Kalonzo into government, Maanzo maintained that such attempts would ultimately fail, stating that although some MPs had expressed interest in the move, it simply would not materialize.
His comments come against a backdrop of heightened political speculation over possible realignments ahead of the 2027 presidential race, as Ruto’s allies work to broaden their coalition and opposition figures position themselves for the upcoming contest. Reports of renewed government efforts to bring Kalonzo into the fold have stirred debate in political circles, given his perceived influence in shaping future alliances.
Kalonzo, who has remained a prominent opposition figure since the 2022 elections, has a history of collaborating with various political formations and continues to pursue national leadership ambitions beyond his traditional Ukambani stronghold.
Maanzo also commented on the rising profile of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, saying the emergence of fresh opposition voices had intensified the political competition heading into 2027. He argued that despite this growing field, Kalonzo remained the opposition’s strongest bet to unseat the current government, citing his experience and political maturity as key assets.
He described Kalonzo as possessing the seasoned judgment needed to lead the opposition, arguing that his history in government and broad national appeal positioned him as a formidable contender — and that such an opportunity to challenge the government should not be squandered.
Momentum around Sifuna has continued to build, with his supporters casting him as a rising figure in Kenya’s next generation of political leadership. Known for his blunt style, sharp messaging, and appeal among younger voters, Sifuna has become an increasingly influential voice in national political discourse.
Maanzo further claimed that even state security agencies were aware of the political calculations surrounding a potential Kalonzo candidacy, suggesting that opposition forces recognized the importance of fielding a strong challenger in the upcoming election.
