Kalonzo to Raila: No Special Treatment if You Rejoin the Opposition - Nairobi Wire
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has made it clear that ODM leader Raila Odinga will not sway him into joining President William Ruto’s political camp.
Speaking during an interview on Monday, June 30, Kalonzo firmly stated that his loyalty lies with the people of Kenya.
“There are people who think that Kalonzo can be convinced by Raila to join President Ruto, let them forget that completely,” Kalonzo said. “I will be where the people are, and I have realized that this is the best way to do it..”
He also took a swipe at his critics over his infamous ‘Watermelon’ and ‘Chameleone’ nicknames, saying, “I was called all sorts of names, and now those who gave me those names have taken them up themselves.”
Kalonzo accused Raila Odinga of betrayal, saying he stood by the ODM leader through three consecutive general elections, only to now feel let down by his decision to work with the Kenya Kwanza administration, saying it went against the expectations of many Kenyans.
“I want to make it very clear that Kenyans did not expect that kind of behavior from Raila Odinga. He should reflect on himsel,” Kalonzo said.
While distancing himself from Raila’s recent political decisions, Kalonzo noted that they no longer meet frequently. However, he added that he would still be open to a conversation if approached.
“We don’t meet with him. I am a national leader. If Raila reaches out to me through a call, we can talk. But that is as far as it can get,” he stated.
Kalonzo asserted that if Raila Odinga chooses to return to the opposition, he will have to fall in line like everyone else.
“If Raila wants to pull out of the broad-based government, that is okay, but not for me to join him in government,” Kalonzo said. “If he joins the opposition, he must follow the queue.”