Businessman and politician Jimi Wanjigi has cast doubt on Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka’s ability to unseat President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election, arguing that the opposition chief lacks the political weight and national appeal required to defeat incumbent Ruto in a direct contest.
Speaking during an interview aired on YouTube by a local radio station on Sunday, June 21, Wanjigi said President Ruto would comfortably secure a second term if the race were reduced to a head-to-head battle between him and Kalonzo.
“If it is President William Ruto against Kalonzo on the ballot, Ruto will win hands down,” Wanjigi said.
The businessman, who is also the Safina Party leader, argued that Kalonzo has struggled to establish an independent political identity despite playing a prominent role in several opposition coalitions over the years.
According to Wanjigi, Kalonzo’s support for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in three presidential elections between 2013 and 2022 failed to translate into a significant personal political base, particularly in regions traditionally associated with Raila’s influence.
“Kalonzo, unfortunately, in my view, is not a driver of anything. The man supported Raila in three elections, and yet you don’t hear him having a voice in Raila’s home turf,” he said.
Wanjigi’s remarks come at a time when Kalonzo is widely viewed as one of the leading figures positioning himself to challenge President Ruto.
Wanjigi also took issue with the growing “Wantam” campaign slogan adopted by the anti-Ruto brigade, arguing that calls for Ruto to serve only one term are unlikely to resonate with voters unless accompanied by a broader political vision.
“Wantam has a limit, because people don’t know what is beyond one term,” he said.
The businessman urged opposition leaders to focus on presenting a unifying national message capable of attracting support beyond traditional political strongholds.
“Sell beyond Wantam and you have a greater unifying factor,” he added.
Wanjigi also argued that the former Vice President has yet to demonstrate sufficient independent political strength or build a durable national movement capable of mounting a serious challenge for State House.
