Azimio Council and National Executive Committee members addressing the press at SKM Command Centre, Nairobi
By Peace Muthoka
NAIROBI, Kenya — Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has called for a united opposition to confront what he describes as a worrying political direction in Kenya, saying the country needs to return to constitutionalism, good governance and respect for the rule of law.
Kalonzo said opposition parties must set aside individual political interests and build a broader political movement capable of defending constitutional rights and holding the Government to account.
“Kenya is headed in the wrong direction, and we have a responsibility to change course,” Kalonzo said.
The Wiper leader spoke after chairing a joint Azimio Council and National Executive Committee meeting, where opposition leaders reviewed their cooperation and discussed ways of strengthening their political engagement ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Kalonzo said the opposition’s role should go beyond preparing for the next election, arguing that political leaders have a responsibility to safeguard the Constitution and protect the rights and freedoms of every person within the country.
He particularly raised concerns over the treatment of foreign nationals living and working in Kenya, saying constitutionalism must apply to everyone within the country’s borders.
Kalonzo singled out Burundian nationals, arguing that their membership in the East African Community should be taken into account in how they are treated in Kenya.
“Our brothers and sisters from Burundi are part of the East African Community, and they deserve dignity, not suspicion,” he said.
His remarks come amid growing debate over foreign nationals operating businesses in Kenya after President William Ruto directed that some categories of small-scale enterprises be reserved for Kenyan citizens.
The Government has subsequently given affected foreign nationals a 90-day window to regularise their immigration status, work permits, business registration and licensing.
While acknowledging the Government’s responsibility to enforce its policies, Kalonzo said such measures must be implemented within the law and in a manner that respects human dignity.
He also warned that Kenya’s approach to the issue could affect its relations with neighbouring countries and the wider East African integration agenda.
“Kenya must remain a good neighbour and honour the spirit of East African integration,” Kalonzo said.
At the same time, the Wiper leader turned his attention to the political and civic space, saying Kenyans must be allowed to exercise their constitutional rights to peaceful assembly, association and expression.
He said the planned Linda Mwananchi opposition gathering on Sunday would provide an opportunity to test the country’s commitment to those freedoms.
“Every Kenyan has a constitutional right to assemble, associate and express themselves peacefully, a right we will defend,” he said.
Kalonzo said protecting those rights should remain central to the opposition’s agenda as political parties work to consolidate their cooperation ahead of the 2027 elections.
The former Vice-President said restoring constitutionalism should not be viewed solely through the lens of electoral politics, but should also involve restoring dignity and protecting the rights of everyone living in Kenya.
“Restoring Kenya to constitutionalism means restoring dignity to everyone within her borders,” he said.
The remarks come as opposition parties intensify efforts to establish a broader political alliance ahead of the 2027 General Election. The question of whether the parties can overcome competing interests and maintain a united front is expected to remain a major feature of Kenya’s political debate.
Kalonzo said Azimio leaders would continue working towards a stronger and more inclusive opposition, with constitutionalism, good governance and the rule of law forming the foundation of their political cooperation.
