Wiper gets new name as Kalonzo courts Gen Z ahead of 2027 polls
Politics
By
Sharon Wanga
| Jul 01, 2025
The Wiper Democratic Movement has announced plans to change its name to Wiper Patriotic Front in a bid to give the party a new face and align with Kenya's youth.
Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka said the rebrand is part of preparations for the 2027 general elections as the party seeks to attract young voters.
The Registrar of Political Parties said the proposed name change follows a letter by Kalonzo to Chief Executive Officer Ann Nderitu.
"The Registrar of Political Parties gives notice that Wiper Democratic Movement intends to change its party name to Wiper Patriotic Front. Any person with written submissions concerning the intended change by the political party shall, within seven days from the date of this publication, deposit them with the Registrar of Political Parties," said Nderitu in a gazette notice dated June 18.
Kalonzo explained that the rebrand aims to reflect the spirit of patriotism shown by Gen Z during the June 2024 protests.
READ MORE
New regulations will unlock untapped potential of solar water heating
Drought fuels tensions at Kenya-Ethiopia border
UAE, African Union deepen partnership on peace, trade and technology
Change knocks when the old self becomes utterly unbearable
Saudi Arabia sets executions record in 2025, putting 356 people to death
Three widows, one legacy: The private life of Cyrus Jirongo
Night of long knives: Inside Ruto-ODM secret power pact meeting
In east DR Congo, minors face systematic risk of sexual violence
Ruto hints at 2027 alliance with ODM
Why Africa should step up efforts to reduce methane emissions
"The party now has a new face as Wiper is going national. The new name will be Wiper Patriotic Front so that our Gen Z are fully included," said Kalonzo during a stop in Emali, Makueni County.
He urged youth to register as members of the rebranded party, noting the new identity mirrors the courage and patriotism Gen Z demonstrated during recent protests.
"That is why we are promoting this ideology, as we are calling it the Patriotic Front. We will officially launch it after our brother Gachagua unveils his Democracy for the Citizens Party," added Kalonzo.
The rebrand comes as opposition parties prepare for the 2027 general elections. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has launched the Democracy for the Citizens Party, while Martha Karua's NARC-Kenya has rebranded to the People's Liberation Party.
Jubilee Party has also reorganised its leadership, retaining former President Uhuru Kenyatta as party leader and Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni.
David Murathe remains Deputy National Chairperson while Wanja Maina stays as National Chair for the League of Persons with Disabilities.
Beatrice Gambo has been appointed Deputy Party Leader (Strategy), replacing Jimmy Angweny,i while Joseph Manje has taken over as Deputy Party Leader (Outreach), replacing Naomi Shabaan.