NAIROBI, Kenya — Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo has dismissed speculation that Wiper Democratic Movement leader Kalonzo Musyoka could join President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration, insisting the former Vice President remains firmly in the opposition.
Speaking during an interview with Citizen TV, Maanzo, a close ally of Kalonzo, said the Wiper leader had made it clear that he would not enter into a political arrangement with the government ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“Kalonzo will not join government and he has communicated it clearly. I was with him two weeks ago and he said it clearly,” Maanzo said.
The senator acknowledged reports suggesting that some Kenya Kwanza leaders have been pushing to persuade Kalonzo to work with the government but maintained that such efforts would not bear fruit.
“I have seen these news articles of bids to court Kalonzo to join government. It is true Kenya Kwanza MPs have been saying that is what they want, but this will not happen,” he said.
His remarks come amid increasing political speculation over possible realignments as political parties position themselves ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
In recent weeks, reports have emerged suggesting that some leaders within the ruling coalition would welcome Kalonzo into government, given his influence in national politics and the Ukambani region.
However, Maanzo maintained there are no negotiations between Kalonzo and President Ruto and insisted the Wiper leader remains committed to the opposition.
The senator also weighed in on the growing prominence of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, saying the emergence of strong opposition voices had intensified political competition ahead of the next General Election.
“After the rise of Sifuna, things have become thick and I can assure you that they know the best candidate for the opposition to send them home is Kalonzo,” Maanzo said.
He described Kalonzo as a seasoned leader with the experience, maturity and national appeal required to unite the opposition and challenge the Kenya Kwanza administration in 2027.
“He has got the maturity, experience and when you have an opportunity to send this government home, you cannot waste it,” he added.
Maanzo further claimed that political players, including state agencies, understand the significance of Kalonzo’s potential presidential bid, arguing that opposition leaders recognise the need to rally behind a strong candidate capable of mounting a competitive challenge in the next election.
