Kalonzo Musyoka Declares Himself Official Opposition Leader Amidst Controversy

Kalonzo Musyoka, leader of the Wiper Party, has asserted his position as the official opposition leader following Raila Odinga’s anticipated exit from Kenyan politics. Addressing the media ahead of his three-day tour of the coast region, Musyoka affirmed that this decision was supported by over 20 affiliates of the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party.

Musyoka’s statement comes in response to claims by Minority Leader Junet Mohamed, who on Thursday declared himself the Opposition leader. Mohamed’s declaration has been met with skepticism by Musyoka.

“As it stands now, I am the official opposition leader because I am the Minority Leader. You cannot take away the role God has assigned to me. Those in the opposition should recognize me as their leader,” Mohamed stated.In a counter-response, Musyoka declared, “I am prepared to lead the official opposition. This is the team. You will witness opposition like never before. Although we may be few in Parliament, we have the support of the Kenyan people.”

Musyoka also highlighted the importance of maintaining a clear leadership role in his recent post on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “There is something called ‘de facto.’ The country cannot afford to have a leadership vacuum.”Furthermore, Azimio la Umoja One Kenya co-principals Eugene Wamalwa and Jeremiah Kioni have reiterated their support for Musyoka, emphasizing that he is the second senior-most leader in the coalition following Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission. Odinga’s departure from local politics has set the stage for a reshuffling of roles within the coalition, with Musyoka poised to take a leading role in the opposition.