In a strategic political move that could reshape the 2027 succession matrix, President William Ruto is reportedly courting Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka with a potential Deputy President slot, as cracks widen within his traditional Mt. Kenya support base.
Sources close to Kenya Kwanza operatives revealed to KTN News that the President has been exploring ways to broaden his coalition ahead of the next general election — and Kalonzo, a seasoned political figure from Ukambani, is seen as a viable partner in offsetting perceived waning loyalty from key Mt. Kenya leaders.
The President’s overtures come at a time when Mt. Kenya, which overwhelmingly backed Ruto in 2022, is showing signs of restlessness. Concerns over unfulfilled promises, diminishing influence, and internal fragmentation have sparked speculation that the region may not back Ruto as solidly in the next poll.
Due to this, Ruto is making careful considerations on who will deputize him and ensure he recovers the lost votes.
“If Mount Kenya votes will be as lost as they are today, it will make no sense to keep Kindiki as his Running Mate,” Herman Manyora, a political analyst, told KTN.
“This is about political survival. Ruto knows he needs a new strategic alliance if Mt. Kenya turns lukewarm,” said political analyst Prof. Gitile Naituli. “Kalonzo brings numbers, regional balance, and a sense of moderation — all things Ruto will need to stabilize his base and expand his reach.”
With more than 2 million votes in Ukambani, insiders reported that the move to have Kalonzo as running mate would neutralize the opposition.
Already, KTN reports that several high-ranking Kenya Kwanza leaders have been dispatched to initiate quiet engagements with Kalonzo’s allies. While no formal announcement has been made, insiders believe the ground is being prepared for a dramatic political handshake — one that could significantly alter the 2027 landscape.
If the Ruto-Kalonzo alliance materializes, it would not only dismantle the current opposition structure but also pose a formidable challenge to any emerging opposition lineup.
Just recently, Kalonzo, who has consistently criticized the Ruto-led administration, affirmed he would remain firm in advocating for peace and defending the rights of Kenyans and would not join the government.
“I will never join this rogue and criminal regime, and I refuse to participate in any type of dialogue with a regime that has our children’s blood on its hands,” Kalonzo said.
