Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka has intensified his campaign activities in the Ukambani region, urging residents to turn out in large numbers and register as voters, saying the move is key to strengthening his bid to challenge President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election.
Speaking in Kitui during the second day of a tour by opposition coalition leaders, Musyoka expressed confidence in his ability to fly the opposition’s presidential flag, presenting himself as a leader with a history of helping past administrations come to power.
“You know how we have been helping others for many years, from Mwai Kibaki to Raila Odinga. I even supported President Ruto when he was facing cases at the International Criminal Court (ICC). Now it is time to bring the presidency home,” he said while urging residents to register in large numbers.
He added that his victory would not come easily, stressing that votes remain the foundation of political success.
“Kenyans are tired of politics of force. They want a country governed by the Constitution and the rule of law,” he said.
The tour also gave other opposition leaders an opportunity to criticise President Ruto, accusing him of poor leadership and policies that are hurting citizens.
Musyoka said the opposition is even considering taking the President to the ICC over alleged human rights violations.
“You Mr President, we will take you back to the ICC if you do not stop politics of force,” he said.
However, voter registration figures show there is still significant work to be done.
According to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), the Ukambani region has registered about 110,000 new voters since the exercise began in March.
Machakos County leads with 47,000 new registrations, followed by Kitui (37,000) and Makueni (25,000). Local leaders say the numbers are still below expectations.
Kitui Governor Julius Malombe said Ukambani needs at least four million votes to ensure Musyoka reaches the presidency.
“Votes are what will take him to State House. We must intensify voter registration efforts,” he said.
Democracy for the Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua warned that leaders supporting President Ruto in Ukambani are undermining Musyoka’s efforts.
He said it is concerning that more than nine MPs from the region are backing the government, a situation he believes must be reversed urgently.
“I sympathise with Kalonzo. He is surrounded by dishonest leaders. If you want him to succeed, you must elect leaders who fully support him,” he said.
However, Musyoka took a reconciliatory tone, urging Kitui South MP Rachael Nyamai to join the opposition instead of working with the government.
The tour, which included rallies in Chuluni, Kisasi, Ikanga, Kyatune, Mutomo, Ikutha and Muangeni, has highlighted the growing intensity of political competition ahead of 2027, with voter registration emerging as a central focus for political parties.
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