In a recent statement issued on Monday, October 16, Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga clarified reports suggesting his endorsement of Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka for the presidency in the 2027 general elections.
Odinga’s spokesperson, Dennis Onyango, emphasized that Odinga’s remarks praising Kalonzo were not an endorsement but an acknowledgment of the Wiper leader’s past deeds.
The statement clarified, “Mr. Odinga therefore clarifies that his praise for H.E. Kalonzo Musyoka for standing with him in three successive elections, the Wiper leader’s strong Christian values, and the support Mr. Musyoka has built across the country was not an endorsement of Mr. Musyoka as the Azimio presidential candidate in 2027.”
Odinga highlighted that Azimio la Umoja is a coalition where every leader stands an equal chance to emerge as the presidential candidate in 2027, with the decision expected to be made closer to the election date.
Despite not officially endorsing Musyoka, Odinga expressed his belief in Musyoka’s ability to compete with President William Ruto.
He stated, “Mr. Odinga however believes that Mr. Musyoka has what it takes to beat Hon. William Ruto in a free and fair presidential contest, contrary to Mr. Ruto’s recent claim that he would easily beat the Wiper leader.”
During a celebration in Bondo, Siaya County, Odinga praised Kalonzo for standing firm with him in previous presidential elections and criticized Ruto’s divisive remarks, saying, “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.”
Odinga also assured Azimio supporters of his continued active involvement in party and national politics leading up to the 2027 elections.
