The fallout within the Azimio coalition has intensified, with some Azimio leaders declaring Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka as their new leader after the ODM party decided to work with the government in a broad-based national unity arrangement.
The list of nominated cabinet members includes Raila Odinga’s appointees Hassan Joho, Wycliffe Oparanya, Opiyo Wandayi, and John Mbadi.
Although ODM has denied claims of joining the government, Kalonzo Musyoka, Jeremiah Kioni, and Eugene Wamalwa have stated that they have released ODM from the Azimio coalition.
Wiper, DAP-K, and Jubilee Party leaders toured Othaya in Nyeri County on Friday, seemingly initiating a new opposition movement after ODM leaders showed reluctance and some joined President William Ruto’s cabinet. Speaking shortly after Martha Karua’s Narc Kenya exited the Azimio coalition, the leaders announced Musyoka as their new leader.
“Sisi tumeamua kama Azimio kuwa tuachilie mzee Raila aende kule AU na sasa Kalonzo Musyoka ndiye kiongozi wetu,” said Wamalwa.
Kioni added, “Hiyo ndio msimamo wetu Kalonzo Musyoka atuongoze kwa hii safari ya kutetea wakenya.”
Kalonzo Musyoka dismissed claims that he had been offered the position of Attorney General by President Ruto, emphasizing that he is not interested in joining the government.
“Mimi nimekuwa vice president wa Kibaki hapa halafu mnasema nipatiwe nikuwe AG…hiyo ni kujishusha kiasi gani?” Posed Kalonzo.
He affirmed his commitment to taking up the role of opposition leader and holding President Ruto’s new government of national unity accountable.
“Ruto kuanzia leo ajue mimi nitaanguka naye…ikuwe wazi nitaanguka na Zakayo,” said Kalonzo.
The Azimio leaders further criticized the newly nominated cabinet, stating that it had betrayed the wishes of protestors.