NAIROBI, Kenya — National Liberal Party (NLP) leader Augustus Kyalo Muli has issued a strongly worded open letter to Wiper Party leader Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, calling for a unified political front in Ukambani ahead of the 2027 General Election.
In the letter, Muli dismissed claims that he is acting as a proxy for other political interests, insisting his allegiance lies solely with the Kamba community.
“I am not anyone’s proxy. I am not a messenger. I am Ukambani’s insurance policy,” he said.
Muli warned that Kenya’s political arithmetic has consistently disadvantaged smaller regional blocs, arguing that numerical strength determines bargaining power in national coalitions.
He referenced the widely used political phrase associated with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua — “5 million can’t support 3 million” — describing it not as an insult but as a strategic reality in coalition politics.
“It is not an insult. It is a strategy. And it has worked against us for 60 years because we walk to the negotiation table divided and weak,” Muli stated.
Call for Ukambani bloc unity
Muli argued that Ukambani’s estimated two million votes are often dispersed among competing coalitions during elections, weakening the region’s influence after voting cycles.
He proposed consolidating votes from Ukambani, diaspora communities, and allied regions into a larger political bloc he estimates could reach five million votes.
“A divided Ukambani is two million votes that others lease every five years. A united Ukambani is the seed of a five-million-vote bloc that can finally deliver a Kamba to State House,” he said.
The NLP leader urged Kalonzo to take a central role in steering what he termed a “Unity Pact 2027” focused on long-term development priorities.
Development agenda and negotiating council
The proposed pact outlines a structured development agenda prioritising water, roads, irrigation, jobs, and markets, with costed and time-bound implementation frameworks.
Muli also suggested the formation of a nine-member negotiating council comprising political leaders, elders, youth representatives, women’s groups, clergy, professionals, and diaspora voices.
He said the council would ensure transparency in political negotiations and eliminate what he described as behind-the-scenes political deals.
“Any leader who cuts a side deal is answerable to the community,” he wrote, adding that the era of secret political bargaining must end.
Political appeal to Kalonzo
Muli acknowledged Kalonzo’s long political career and influence in Ukambani but challenged him to redefine his legacy through unity.
“You have carried Ukambani for over three decades. We honor you for that. But carrying Ukambani and uniting Ukambani are two different assignments,” he wrote.
He added that while leadership in the past had focused on representation, the current moment required consolidation of regional strength into a competitive national force.
Rising early succession politics
The letter adds to growing early political realignments ahead of 2027, as regional leaders increasingly position themselves within emerging coalition structures.
Muli concluded his letter with a direct appeal for unity, saying the opportunity for political transformation depends on whether Ukambani leaders choose cohesion or fragmentation.
“My hand is not extended to beg. It is extended to build,” he wrote. “If we unite, we win with you. If we don’t, we all lose, including you.”
