Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has strongly defended Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka against the long-standing perception of being indecisive, popularly referred to as the “watermelon” tag.
Speaking in Kitengela town, Kajiado County, after attending a Sunday service at Jesus Exaltation Centre Orkinos, Gachagua argued that the label better fits ODM leader Raila Odinga.
“Raila has played Kalonzo for 14 years. He even made him sit through a running mate interview, yet Kalonzo has never betrayed him. From day one, Kalonzo has been firm,” Gachagua said.
The former Mathira MP, who was impeached as Deputy President last year, accused Raila of repeatedly shifting alliances after losing elections. He cited Raila’s political collaborations with the late Daniel Moi in 1997, the late Mwai Kibaki in 2007, former President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2017, and currently President William Ruto after the 2022 polls.
“In fact, he is the ‘watermelon’ of Kenya — a person with no firm stand. The tag you gave Kalonzo now belongs to you, Raila,” Gachagua added.
His remarks came just days after Kalonzo revealed that Raila had invited him to ODM’s 20th anniversary celebrations, an invitation he declined.
Kalonzo welcomed Gachagua’s support, maintaining that he has never betrayed Kenyans despite being betrayed himself.
“I have always stood with the people, and not even once have I betrayed the interests of my beloved country. Yes, I have been betrayed many times along the way, but my faith in God and my resolve to serve Kenya have never wavered. I remain committed to the dream of a united, prosperous, and just nation where leadership is about service and not self-interest,” Kalonzo said.
