ODM Senator Claims Kalonzo Musyoka Is Headed out of Opposition after Skipping Gachagua's Return

ODM Senator Claims Kalonzo Musyoka Is Headed out of Opposition after Skipping Gachagua's Return

  • None of Rigathi Gachagua's co-principals in the opposition were present at his reception at the JKIA as he returned to Kenya from the US on Thursday, August 21
  • Gachagua was received by his supporters and allied politicians who camped at the airport from early morning
  • Migori senator Eddy Oketch observed that their absence was an indication that they disapprove of Gachagua's politics

Migori senator Eddy Oketch now says that the absence of opposition leaders in Rigathi Gachagua's reception at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) is symbolic.

Rigathi Gachagua.
Former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua with his supporters after returning from the US. Photo: Rigathi Gachagua.
Source: UGC

The former deputy president was received by politicians allied to him and his supporters, who had camped at the airport from Thursday morning, August 21.

Did opposition leaders welcome Gachagua at JKIA?

Notably, none of the principals in Gachagua's faction were there to receive him.

The DCP leader is on the same side as Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, People's Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua, DAP-Kenya's Eugene Wamalwa, and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i.

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According to Senator Oketch, the leaders' absence indicates disapproval of Gachagua's political undertakings.

He particularly pointed out Kalonzo, whom he suggested could be on his way to the broad-based government.

According to Eddy, Kalonzo might be incorporated into the government, occasioning a reorganisation in the near future.

"Kalonzo gives the hoax homecoming a wide berth; confirming he yields to joining broadbased after a number of secretive meetings. Reshuffle looming," he said.

Does Kalonzo Musyoka intend to join government?

Even as the senator put up his claims, Kalonzo has been steadfast in his resolve to challenge President William Ruto out of power.

In recent days, the Wiper leader has been tasked with reaffirming his commitment to the opposition amid growing speculation that he might be aligning with the government.

Last month, during the Ukambani chapter of the empowerment series, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki made overtures to Kalonzo, encouraging him to consider joining Ruto’s camp.

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In his remarks, the deputy president suggested that Kalonzo’s political demeanour is more moderate compared to the combative approach often seen in opposition figures like Gachagua.

Kindiki expressed interest in holding a meeting with Kalonzo to discuss the possibility of collaboration.

Former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua with Kalonzo Musyoka.
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka currently aligns with the opposition bringing together other leaders like Rigathi Gachagua. Photo: Rigathi Gachagua.
Source: Twitter

Why I can't work with Ruto - Kalonzo

However, Kalonzo swiftly declined the proposal, citing multiple reasons for his refusal to associate with the current administration.

Positioning himself as a defender of the public interest, the former vice president pointed to what he described as the government's shortcomings and its harsh response to youth-led protests as key factors behind his decision.

He reaffirmed his commitment to the opposition and expressed hope that he would be chosen as its presidential candidate to challenge Ruto in the 2027 elections.

With his firm stance now in the spotlight, many will be watching to see whether he maintains this position in the long run.

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Kalonzo has sacrificed his presidential bids thrice in favour of ODM leader Raila Odinga.

Meanwhile, Gachagua said he is ready to support whichever candidate from the opposition his colleague will settle on.

He, however, holds that he is the best fit to face off with Ruto.

Source: TUKO.co.ke

Authors:
Kai Eli avatar

Kai Eli (Politics and current affairs editor) Eli Kai is currently working with TUKO as a politics and current affairs editor. He has four years of experience in digital journalism. He has been feted for his meritorious coverage of Kenya's 2022 General Election. Eli joined Tuko.co.ke in 2021. Email: eli.odaga@tuko.co.ke

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