Sonko to Kalonzo: You are better off deputising Ruto

When Mike Sonko officially joined the Wiper Party ahead of the 2022 General Election. [File, Standard]

Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko now says Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka is better off deputising President William Ruto than a United Opposition candidate.

Sonko on Thursday urged Kalonzo to make a decisive political choice, warning against using Kamba votes to divide the Opposition as he steps up Ukambani mobilisation ahead of 2027

Speaking on NTV’s interview, the former Nairobi Senator and current NEDP party leader challenged Kalonzo to reconsider his political strategy ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Sonko argued that should the United Opposition deny Kalonzo the presidential ticket, he should negotiate for a senior position in President William Ruto’s government, either as Deputy President or Prime Minister, rather than gamble on another uncertain political arrangement.

“Kalonzo, you have suffered three consecutive unsuccessful presidential election bids. The Kamba community has repeatedly been used to divide votes, yet our people have continued to suffer for years without meaningful development,” he said, adding, “This is your last bullet and your last chance. If the Opposition does not allow you to be its presidential flagbearer, do not gamble again. You would be better off negotiating to become Ruto’s Deputy President or Prime Minister, even if it means losing for the last time.”

Sonko said since Kalonzo left the Vice Presidency, Ukambani had largely remained in the Opposition, a situation he believes has weakened the region’s bargaining power and development prospects.

He urged Kamba leaders to unite, prioritise water, roads and economic empowerment, and make political decisions based on tangible benefits rather than traditional alliances.

While acknowledging Kalonzo’s efforts, Sonko said the former Vice President could have done more for the region had he ascended to the presidency.

Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka during a campaign trail at Changamwe roundabout in Mombasa on May 6, 2022. [Courtesy] 

He also maintained that advocating for Ukambani’s interests was not tribalism but a legitimate call for collective development and stronger national representation.

In a further push to consolidate his influence in the region, Sonko in recent days has intensified consultations with Ukambani leaders, including Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua, Commissioner Muthama and other political figures and aspirants.

He recently toured the region, attending a church service at AIC Tala, where he said he was encouraged by what he described as renewed hope and unity among residents.

“We cannot continue suffering in poverty while other communities prosper through unity. Our people deserve better!” he declared, insisting that Ukambani must secure a meaningful place in the next national leadership.

Currently, he has embarked on strengthening NEDP grassroots structures, hosting the party’s Makueni team led by gubernatorial aspirant Maurice Wambua.

The delegation included several aspirants seeking different elective positions, with discussions focusing on political mobilisation, economic empowerment and expanding the party’s presence across the county.

A key outcome was planning for a mega rally in Makueni, which will coincide with the official opening of NEDP county offices.

In the interview, Sonko further called on Ukambani politicians to stop fighting among themselves and establish a common position before engaging the national political leadership.

He said he was open to dialogue with leaders across the political divide, including President Ruto and Opposition figures, arguing that engagement was necessary to understand the aspirations of ordinary Kenyans.