Raila Clarifies Supporting Kalonzo In 2027

Azimio la Umoja leader, Raila Odinga, has distanced himself from reports claiming he endorsed Wiper Party Leader, Kalonzo Musyoka as the presidential candidate to succeed him during the 2027 general elections.

In a statement dated Monday, October 16 and seen by Viral Tea, Raila through his spokesperson Dennis Onyango clarified that his praise to Kalonzo did not mean that he had decided to step down from active politics having lost five consecutive elections.

He reckoned that four years was too early for the coalition to name its presidential candidate.

Azimio Principals Raila Odinga (right) and Kalonzo Musyoka in Kitui County on October 14, 2023. /KALONZO MUSYOKA

"Mr. Odinga therefore clarifies that his praise for H.E. Kalonzo Musyoka for standing with him in three successive elections, the Wiper leader's strong Christian values and the support Mr. Musyoka has built across the country was not an endorsement of Mr. Musyoka as the Azimio presidential candidate in 2027," the statement explained in part.

Odinga stated that the praise heaped on Kalonzo was merely an acknowledgement and appreciation of past deeds in the public domain.

The former Prime Minister explained that the choice of a flag bearer against President William Ruto would only be made at the right time and only when the flag bearer has demonstrated a proven record with the party membership.

"Mr Odinga views Azimio as a coalition of equals, in which every leader stands a fair and equal chance to emerge as the presidential candidate in 2027, depending on each leader's relationship with the party membership. That candidate will however not be named until a year or just months to the 2027 election.

"Mr. Odinga however believes that Mr. Musyoka has what it takes to beat Hon. William Ruto in a free and fair presidential contest, contrary to Mr. Ruto's recent claim that he would easily beat the Wiper leader. Mr Odinga further assures Azimio supporters and the country that he plans to remain very active in the party and national politics all the way to 2027. His words of praise for Mr Musyoka were therefore not intended to mean he had or intends to quit active politics," the statement added.

Raila on Sunday, October 16 during Siaya senator Oburu Oginga’s birthday celebration in Bondo, Siaya County, accused President Ruto of trying to divide the coalition by falsely speculating on Kalonzo's candidacy in 2027, declaring that Azimio would stand with the coalition leader.