Raila Odinga, the leader of the Azimio alliance, commended Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka during an event and hinted at supporting him in the 2027 presidential election. Speaking at his brother Oburu Odinga’s 80th birthday party at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University in Bondo, Raila expressed his admiration for Kalonzo’s steadfast support in his political journey, despite not being chosen as his running mate in the previous presidential election.
“Huyu Jamaa ana moyo, ukakamavu, jamaa ni mtu ambaye unaweza kumuamini na Mkistro. Ana tabia ya uungwana na upendo kabisa,” he said, which translates to “This man has a good heart, is hardworking, trustworthy, and a Christian. He is someone you can trust, and he is loving.”
Raila took the opportunity to criticize President William Ruto, who had stated his readiness to compete against Kalonzo in the 2027 presidential general election. Raila emphasized that within the Azimio alliance, anyone, including himself, could contest for the presidency, and he expressed his willingness to stand with Kalonzo.
“Juzi nilisikia Ruto anasema ‘najua Baba hatasimama.’ Sasa mimi nitakuwa na saa ya Kalonzo tu. Anaongea juu ya Kalonzo ni kama Kalonzo ni kama yeye. Kalonzo ameshinda Ruto mara kumi. Anataka kutugawanya sisi sijui Baba na Kalonzo, Baba hatasimama,” Raila said. This can be translated as “The other day, I heard President Ruto saying that he knows I will not contest and he is ready for Kalonzo. He talks about Kalonzo as if he is Kalonzo. Kalonzo is ten times better than him; he only wants to pit us against each other.”
“Miongoni mwetu hapa mtu atasimama. Tutasimama kidete na ndugu Kalonzo Musyoka, yeye ni mwaminifu,” Raila concluded. Translated to “Someone among us must contest. We shall stand firm with Kalonzo Musyoka.”
Raila also mentioned that Oburu had chosen to invite Kalonzo as the guest of honor for his birthday party, expressing warm wishes and reminiscing about the memories they have created over the years. “Oburu, my beloved brother, I wish you a very happy 80th birthday! We’ve been through a lot together over the years, and you’ve always been there for me. May God continue to bless you,” Raila said.
