Raila and Kalonzo Advised to Avoid Division for Political Success

Leaders of the Azimio coalition are now calling on their key figures, Raila Odinga and Kalonzo Musyoka, to maintain unity and collaboration until the general elections in 2027.

Politicians within the coalition have also encouraged members, including MPs, senators, governors, and councilors, to stand firm with Azimio and disregard temptations from the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition.

Over the weekend, Siaya Governor James Orengo and Minority Leader in Parliament Opiyo Wandayi showered praise on Mr. Musyoka, thanking him for supporting Mr. Odinga in the elections of 2013, 2017, and 2022.

“We are very grateful, Kalonzo, for staying strong. You were with us during the protests in Nairobi, and we will never forget. As Luo people, we assess a leader by their bravery, transparency, and steadfastness,” said Mr. Wandayi.

Mr. Orengo also commended the Wiper leader, stating that he has truly stood by Mr. Odinga and is indeed a true friend.

“Kalonzo, we welcome you to Gem. You have stood with us for a long time, and this is something we will not forget,” Governor Orengo remarked.

Mr. Musyoka urged the people of Nyanza not to lose faith and to continue advocating for Kenyans.

He was accompanied by these politicians, including Raila Odinga’s wife, Mama Idah, in Wagai, Gem constituency, during a fundraising event for an educational institution.

“Continue to be brave. We have come to encourage you to remain courageous like Jakom (Raila). We have been denied victory three times, but let’s not lose hope and let’s protect our democracy,” said Mr. Musyoka.

The former Vice President added that Mr. Odinga continues to criticize the government, pledging to continue collaborating with him in politics.

Former Mungiki leader Maina Njenga, who marched with Mr. Musyoka, urged Azimio leaders to remain steadfast, stating that it is the only way to oust Kenya Kwanza in 2027.

“We must stay united as we were during the protests. I don’t understand what Raila is waiting for because we are ready to return to the streets,” Njenga said.

Leaders from Ukambani who accompanied Mr. Musyoka included MPs Robert Mbui (Kathiani), Stephen Mule (Matungulu), Kitui Representative Irene Kasalu, and Makueni County Speaker Douglas Mwilu.

During the event, Mrs. Odinga criticized Gem MP Elisha Odhiambo, who is collaborating with Kenya Kwanza despite being elected on an ODM ticket.

Mrs. Odinga stated that Odhiambo’s political shift is a betrayal to the residents who voted for him.

“Gem has been good except for Elisha, who has decided to embarrass us. There might be something bothering him. If he is unwell, we will treat him, but if he has done this intentionally, there are many leaders here in Gem,” Mrs. Odinga said.

Mr. Wandayi acknowledged that ODM’s leadership made mistakes by trusting and giving tickets to some leaders defending their seats in 2022.

“We made mistakes here in Siaya, but I want to assure you that it will not happen again. We will not choose traitors again,” he emphasized.

Mr. Orengo also vowed to ensure ODM remains strong in the county, stating that UDA has no chance of succeeding in Nyanza.

“Elisha is embarrassing us everywhere he goes. We don’t want UDA here in Gem, and if you see him, tell him that,” said the governor.