Deputy President Kithure Kindiki is making an aggressive move into Ukambani—an opposition stronghold and political base of Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka. In recent public events across Kitui and Makueni, Kindiki made it clear that the region, and especially Kalonzo, stands at a crossroads: remain loyal to an opposition coalition losing its grip, or shift allegiance to the government for the sake of development and relevance.

In speeches delivered during community empowerment events, Kindiki appealed directly to the people of Ukambani, asking them to look past political history and tribal loyalty. His message was pointed: the government is delivering services and building the nation, while the opposition remains stuck in rhetoric and inertia.

A Calculated Play for Kalonzo

In what appeared less like diplomacy and more like pressure, Kindiki singled out Kalonzo for what he described as political misalignment. Describing Kalonzo as a “reasonable statesman trapped by outdated alliances,” Kindiki urged him to abandon the Azimio coalition, which he framed as politically hollow and directionless.

The Deputy President openly declared his intention to “look for Kalonzo,” suggesting private talks may be on the table to bring him into the Kenya Kwanza fold. This was not a mere invitation—it was a challenge wrapped in praise. Kindiki is effectively telling Kalonzo: either come aboard or risk fading into irrelevance with a disintegrating opposition.

Warnings and Subtle Threats

Beyond sweet talk, Kindiki offered warnings laced with political undertones. He accused Kalonzo’s opposition allies of being unreliable and opportunistic, cautioning him not to “walk into betrayal.” Though he did not name names, the implications were clear—figures like Raila Odinga, Martha Karua, and others cannot be trusted, and Kalonzo risks going down with them.

He contrasted this with his own administration, boasting of transparency, unity, and a track record of visible development. The message was unmistakable: join the winning team or stay loyal to political ghosts.

Dismantling the Opposition’s Narrative

Kindiki also took the opportunity to paint the opposition as a coalition in disarray. In his words, Azimio has become a “coalition of failure,” comprised of individuals more concerned with self-preservation than service delivery. He ridiculed their lack of a coherent plan and accused them of clinging to outdated politics of grievance and ethnicity.

This narrative fits squarely into the Kenya Kwanza strategy of neutralizing opposition influence by undermining its leadership while presenting itself as the face of development and modern governance.

2027 Starts Now

Though the general elections are still two years away, Kindiki’s maneuvers suggest that the race for 2027 has already begun. His focus on Kalonzo is no accident: by either absorbing or neutralizing the Wiper leader, Kindiki would weaken the opposition’s national appeal and fracture their coalition from within.

The Deputy President's language is no longer that of reconciliation but realignment. Kalonzo’s next political move will determine whether Ukambani retains its opposition identity or redefines its place in Kenya’s power structure.