The former Vice President has downplayed the ongoing reports that indicated his party is undergoing turbulent times with a section of leaders opposing his presidential bid.
During his tour of Embu on Thursday, November 11, Kalonzo insisted that his party was intact and that no wrangles or differences were being experienced.
According to sources, the party boss was under intense pressure to accompany the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader, Raila Odinga, in his tour of Makueni.
Kalonzo, however, insisted that Raila is free to visit the region and his presence was not of importance since the two leaders are seeking the same position in the next year’s polls.
“It is not a must for me to attend Raila’s function in Makueni. Just like any presidential aspirant, he is free to go to the Ukambani region. I am also planning to visit his Nyanza region,” Kalonzo stated.
Kalonzo further addressed claims that his party was divided on whether to support Raila or Deputy President, William Ruto.
According to a source privy to the happenings at Wiper, the party is reportedly split into two camps with one pushing for a Raila – Kalonzo ticket, while the other camp is pushing for a Ruto – Kalonzo candidacy.
A source who spoke to Kenyans.co.ke confirmed the division in the Wiper Party.
“It’s true Wiper is divided into two camps. A majority want Kalonzo to support Raila, while Kalonzo himself and a minority are warming up to Ruto,” the source intimated.Â
“The group feels that Kalonzo is better positioned if he agrees to go with Raila to the ballot.”
However, Kalonzo has made it clear that his presidential bid is still alive and that he would not support Raila for the presidency.Â
“I am still in the Presidential race, I have not picked any side. Right now I am still negotiating with my fellow principals in One Kenya Alliance (OKA) before making the final decision.”
Initially, Kalonzo had made it clear that he is open to negotiations with Ruto and his United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ahead of the 2022 election.
Kalonzo stated that Kenya is a free democracy that allows political opponents to freely exchange their views.
“If you hear them looking for me, tell them I am available because Kenyans must consult. If they want to reach out to me, they are most welcome,” he stated.
“So, I am very much at peace and I want Ruto to go there 100 times and bring in more goodies in wheelbarrows and baskets. But the decision on who is going to be next leader is a different question that the money and the goodies cannot buy.”
On the issue of Ukambani leaders ganging against him, Kalonzo downplayed it as a non-issue.
This comes as reports indicate that Raila is planning to use Kalonzo’s rivals, Governors Charity Ngilu (Kitui), Alfred Mutua (Machakos), and Kivutha Kibwana (Makueni), to counter the Wiper Party leader who is under pressure to maintain the status quo as the region’s kingpin.Â
During the Azimio La Umoja tour on Friday, November 12, the Ukambani leaders assured Raila of their support in his presidential bid.
Source: KENYAGIST.COM
