Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti has made a bold political statement, urging the people of Nyanza to throw their weight behind Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka’s presidential bid in 2027. Speaking during the burial of Richard Ochieng Oloo in Ng’iya, Siaya County, Wavinya emphasized the long-standing alliance between the Kamba and Luo communities in national politics.
“As the Kamba community, we have stood firmly with H.E. Raila Amolo Odinga for the past 15 years. Our son Dr. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka has offered himself for the Presidency. I call upon the great people of Nyanza to rally behind him in his presidential bid for the 2027 General Elections,” Wavinya declared.
Her remarks come at a time when political realignments are taking shape ahead of the next General Election. The Wiper Party, a key pillar in the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition, has insisted that Kalonzo is the most suitable candidate to take over from Raila, who has unsuccessfully vied for the presidency five times.
Luo-Kamba Political Partnership at a Crossroads
Wavinya’s statement puts pressure on Raila’s political backyard to show gratitude for the Kamba community’s support. Over the years, Kalonzo has been a loyal deputy to Raila in 2013, 2017, and 2022, but his patience appears to be wearing thin, with the Wiper leader insisting it is now his turn to lead.
Governor Wavinya’s rallying call suggests a push for a new political order within the opposition, where Raila’s traditional supporters will have to decide whether to stick with him or embrace Kalonzo as the new face of Azimio.
Orengo, Wanjigi in Attendance – Political Implications?
Present at the event were Siaya Governor James Orengo and businessman Jimmy Wanjigi, both key figures in Raila’s political circles. While they did not immediately respond to Wavinya’s plea, their presence signaled the weight of the moment. Orengo, a long-time Raila ally, is seen as a major influencer in Luo-Nyanza politics, while Wanjigi, a former Raila strategist turned political rebel, has been advocating for leadership change in the opposition.
If Luo Nyanza shifts its support to Kalonzo, it would dramatically alter the 2027 political landscape and put pressure on Raila to declare his stance.
The Bigger Picture: Will Raila Endorse Kalonzo?
The big question remains: Will Raila back Kalonzo, or will he run again if he fails to clinch the African Union Chairperson seat? The former Prime Minister has not publicly anointed a successor, leaving room for speculation. However, Wavinya’s message was clear – it is time for the Luo community to return the favor.
With 2027 still three years away, this call could be the beginning of intense negotiations within Azimio. If Kalonzo wins Luo-Nyanza’s backing, he could become the strongest opposition candidate against President William Ruto. If not, the Kamba community might be forced to reconsider its political alliances.
Wavinya Ndeti’s remarks have officially kicked off the 2027 battle within the opposition. Will Luo-Nyanza heed her call? Will Raila finally pass the baton to Kalonzo? And if not, will Wiper chart its own path?
One thing is clear – the 2027 succession politics have just begun.
