Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Daily Nation
Published on 2024-02-11 04:35:48
The burial of Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka’s brother-in-law on Saturday was dominated by the debate over who would be the flag bearer for the Azimio la Umoja coalition in the 2027 elections. Azimio leader Raila Odinga assured the Kamba community that he had no problem stepping aside and endorsing Mr Musyoka, emphasizing the need to carry along each party in the coalition. He acknowledged Mr Musyoka’s significant contribution to his quest for power and indicated his support for Mr Musyoka, but he also called for patience and cautioned against rushing to unveil the coalition’s presidential candidate.
During the burial in Kasaala area of Ikutha, Kitui County, Mr Odinga acknowledged the long-standing friendship between his family and Kalonzo’s family, stating that their close relationship transcends the competition of their political parties. He further emphasized the need for Azimio member parties to strengthen themselves rather than being pressured to announce their flagbearer prematurely. Mr Odinga also warned that the timing of unveiling the presidential candidate could have a detrimental effect on the coalition in the long run, urging patience for the issue to be discussed and resolved by the concerned parties at the appropriate time.
Former Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa opened the debate by reminding Mr Odinga of Mr Musyoka’s support in previous elections and the need for reciprocation. Mr Odinga clarified that he had not retired from politics and that at the right time, an agreement on the presidential candidate would be reached. However, his assertions received criticism from Wiper elected leaders, with Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr demanding an early declaration of the coalition’s candidate to allow ample campaign time across the country.
The Wiper Party national vice chairman, Mutula Kilonzo Jr, emphasized the need for Azimio to present itself as an alternative government with an early declaration of a presidential candidate, expressing the party’s refusal to tolerate mistreatment and disrespect of their leader, Kalonzo Musyoka. Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua echoed the urgency for resolving the issue of unveiling Azimio’s candidate, ensuring respect for Mr Musyoka and adequate preparation to defeat President William Ruto in 2027.
Their sentiments were supported by Wiper MPs, including Kitui Woman Representative Dr. Irene Kasalu, who emphasized the party’s commitment to presenting a candidate with the experience and temperament to lead Kenya. Mr Musyoka, who stayed clear of the debate, is scheduled to embark on a three-day tour of Embu and Meru counties before heading to the Gusii region.
Azimio leaders present at the burial included former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya, George Wajackoya, Kitui Governor Julius Malombe, and Kitui County Assembly Speaker Kevin Kinengo. The debate remains ongoing, with the focus on the coalition’s presidential candidate and the need for unity and strategic planning to secure victory in the 2027 elections.
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