Kalonzo is qualified to fly Azimio flag in 2027 and beyond – Wandayi
Opiyo Wandayi, the minority leader of the National Assembly, has stated that Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has the potential to run for president under the Azimio banner.
Wandayi, however, stated that it is not yet time for the coalition to select their flag bearer.
According to him, the media misunderstood the praise Azimio Chief Raila Odinga lavished on Kalonzo and published headlines and commentary that implied Raila had endorsed Kalonzo.
“Baba was simply making a commitment that as the Azimio family we shall continue to remain together and support one another. Especially those of us who have remained steadfast like Kalonzo,” Wandayi said.
“That does not mean that Kalonzo Musyoka is not competent enough to be the Presidential candidate for Azimio. Kalonzo is eminently qualified to fly the Azimio flag as a presidential candidate, not only in 2027 but also any other time.”
He spoke during an interview with Spice FM on Tuesday.
Wandayi explained that Raila’s comments required context. He stated that on that particular Sunday, Kalonzo had been the chief guest at the Bondo 80th birthday celebration for Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga.
He stated that as the chief guest, Kalonzo attended the ceremony in grand fashion, accompanied by governors from Kitui, Machakos, and Makueni.
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Kalonzo was also joined by senators and representatives from his neighborhood.
“He came with force as a true guest. And you know, as Luos we cherish visitors. If there is something that we value it is visitors. So we had to accord them the welcome they deserved,” he said.
Wandayi reported that when the time arrived for speeches, attendees praised the chief guest, with Raila’s being the most notable.
“People praised Kalonzo, especially Baba. Kalonzo has stood with him all this time since 2013. Baba said Kalonzo is a trustworthy comrade, he is a reliable person, he has been steadfast and we will continue to stand together. He even used Swahili words saying ‘sisi tutazidi kusimama na Kalonzo kidete,” Wandayi said.
Monday, in response to media reports that Raila had ultimately endorsed Kalonzo, the ODM party leader issued a clarification.
Raila stated that he had nothing but praise for Kalonzo’s decision to support him in successive elections.
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He insisted the praise was recognition and gratitude for his good actions.
He clarified that his comments did not imply that he intended to retire from politics.
“In his speech, Raila clarifies that his praises for Kalonzo for standing with him in three successive elections, his strong Christian values and the support Kalonzo has built across the country was not an endorsement of Mr Musyoka as the Azimio presidential candidate in 2027,” a statement by Raila’s spokesperson Dennis Onyango read.
“His words of praise for Kalonzo were therefore not intended to mean he had or intends to quit active politics.”
Former Kenyan Prime Minister noted that it is too early for any political party to nominate a presidential candidate, as the next general election will not occur for four years.
In contrast to Ruto’s recent assertion that he would easily defeat Kalonzo, Raila stated that he believes Kalonzo has what it takes to vanquish President William Ruto in a free and fair presidential election.
He also assured Azimio’s supporters that he will remain active in party and national politics until 2027.
Kalonzo is qualified to fly Azimio flag in 2027 and beyond – Wandayi