Aasai

Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has called on Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka to join the Kenya Kwanza administration, emphasizing the importance of national inclusivity and unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during a political event held in Machakos County, Wandayi made a passionate appeal for the inclusion of the Kamba community in the national leadership framework, stating that leaving them out would be a grave injustice to a people he described as “loyal, patriotic, and integral to Kenya’s democratic fabric.”

“We are approaching a very critical political juncture as a nation. It would be completely unacceptable for the Kamba people to be left behind in this process,” Wandayi said, addressing a crowd of supporters. “They have stood with Kenya through thick and thin, and they must be part of the journey forward.”

The Cabinet Secretary described Kalonzo as a seasoned and respectable statesman who has demonstrated unwavering commitment to Kenya over the years. Using a metaphorical expression, Wandayi declared, “Kalonzo has washed his hands, washed his face, and even his clothes — he is ready. He must be brought into the fold.”

Wandayi’s remarks are part of ongoing efforts by pro-government figures to woo Kalonzo Musyoka into forming a more inclusive administration that reflects Kenya’s diversity. He underscored that national unity cannot be achieved if any community or major political figure is sidelined.

“Let us work together as one united Kenya. The people of Kamba are our brothers and sisters. This country is big enough for all of us,” Wandayi asserted.

The appeal, however, comes at a time when Kalonzo has made his stance on joining the current government crystal clear. A day earlier, on Sunday, June 15, Kalonzo firmly rejected overtures from Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, describing the administration as insincere and accusing it of failing to uphold justice and accountability.

“I will work with the truthful man called Gachagua,” Kalonzo stated during a church service in Ngong’. “This so-called broad-based government is not inclusive — it’s blood-based. Just look at the case of Albert Ojwang’. Instead of engaging in image politics, they should start by apologising to Kenyans.”

Kalonzo was referring to the recent outcry over the death of blogger Albert Ojwang’, who died while in police custody. The incident has sparked nationwide protests and renewed scrutiny of the government’s human rights record.

Kalonzo went further, demanding accountability from Deputy President Kindiki, who was Interior Cabinet Secretary during previous youth-led demonstrations that ended in fatalities. “Kindiki should apologise for the Gen Z deaths and for the death of Ojwang’. Only then can he talk about unity,” Kalonzo said.

In a measured response issued via social media on June 16, Kindiki addressed Kalonzo’s statements, acknowledging the Wiper leader’s decision to reject collaboration. However, he urged for civility in public discourse and mutual respect among leaders.

“I hear my big brother Kalonzo has said he doesn’t wish to work with me politically. That is fine with me,” Kindiki posted on X. “For the unkind things he has said about me, I won’t answer him back publicly — not because I can’t, but because I don’t engage in public duels with people I respect.”

Kindiki, however, cautioned that continued personal attacks would not be tolerated. “Respect is a two-way street,” he noted. “If he continues, I will happily tackle him head-on.”

Despite the political friction, Kindiki reiterated the government’s commitment to deliver its development agenda to all Kenyans, regardless of their political affiliations or ethnic background.

As the nation gears up for what is expected to be a high-stakes 2027 general election, calls for unity are growing louder. Whether Kalonzo will eventually soften his position remains to be seen, but Wandayi’s plea signals a broader effort to heal rifts and promote national dialogue.