NAIROBI, Kenya – Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has declined an invitation from his long-time ally Raila Odinga to attend the Orange Democratic Movement’s (ODM) 20th anniversary celebrations, signaling widening cracks in the opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking outside Wiper headquarters in Nairobi on Wednesday, Kalonzo said Odinga had personally written to him, requesting his presence at the three-day celebrations scheduled for October 10–12 in Mombasa.
“Ile kitu nimeona Raila ameniandikia barua akinialika ODM at 20. Mimi sitakuwa huko. I wish them well. I have spent a sizable chunk of my own life to support Raila,” Kalonzo told reporters.
The announcement underscores growing political distance between the two leaders, who have shared a long but often uneasy alliance under the Azimio la Umoja coalition.
Kalonzo, who has already declared his bid for the 2027 presidency, appeared to express regret over consistently backing Odinga’s failed presidential runs.
At the same briefing, Kalonzo launched a scathing attack on President William Ruto, predicting that he will not secure re-election in 2027.
Drawing parallels with Malawi President Lazarus Chakwera—who on Wednesday conceded defeat after just one term—Kalonzo said Kenyans will deliver a similar verdict at the ballot box.
“Malawi wamesema one term na Wakenya are about to make history; President Ruto lazima atakuwa one term. Tujiandae Ruto atakuwa wa kwanza kusema nimekubali,” he declared.
The Wiper leader further revealed that his party will field candidates in several upcoming by-elections, including Kasipul, Ugunja, Magarini, and seven ward races across the country, signaling renewed grassroots mobilization.
ODM, formed in 2005 after the constitutional referendum fallout, will mark two decades of political activity with major celebrations at the Coast.
The event is expected to attract party loyalists and key allies, though Kalonzo’s absence could highlight the shifting dynamics within the opposition.
