Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka has come under sharp criticism following what many termed as a “wasted opportunity” during his speech at the state funeral of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in Bondo, Siaya County.
Kalonzo, who for over 15 years stood by Raila’s side—persuading the Kamba community to rally behind him in three consecutive elections—was expected to use the rare national platform to cement his political appeal beyond Ukambani. Instead, observers say he failed to rise to the moment.
“Given a chance to talk, Kalonzo proved completely inadequate,” one commentator remarked online. “He was given an opportunity after days of demanding to speak, and yet delivered nothing inspiring. No aura, no content.”
Despite receiving a warm reception from the Luo crowd—signaling years of goodwill nurtured through his alliance with Raila—his speech left many questioning whether he can effectively unite the country or lead the Azimio coalition moving forward.
Politics, analysts note, is often about timing and opportunity—and Kalonzo’s perceived lack of depth at such a defining moment may have cost him the political investment he had built within the Luo Nyanza base.
“Is this the man we expect to take our community to State House?” one critic asked rhetorically on social media, echoing growing frustration among supporters who had anticipated a strong, visionary message.
Others linked his recent association with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to his apparent loss of political sharpness, arguing that “when you hang out with mediocres, your content evaporates—you start thinking tribally.”
As the dust settles from Raila’s historic send-off, the question remains: did Kalonzo Musyoka’s silence amid opportunity signal the end of his national relevance—or is it just a stumble on his long, uncertain road to State House?
