A new twist has emerged in the opposition’s 2027 succession plans after Head of Presidential Special Projects and Creative Economy Coordination, Dennis Itumbi, claimed a section of opposition leaders is planning to push for Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka as their presidential candidate.
In a statement, Itumbi claimed Kalonzo, former Attorney General Justin Muturi, Lenny Kivuti, Eugene Wamalwa and other leaders were headed to Athi River for what he described as crucial discussions.
According to Itumbi, the group has agreed to push for Kalonzo’s presidential bid even without the backing of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
He claimed the leaders want Kalonzo unveiled as the joint opposition candidate by October 10.
“We cannot delay anymore or wait for Jofri next year,” Itumbi quoted the group as saying, referring to Gachagua by his nickname.
The alleged plan also includes Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna as Kalonzo’s running mate.
Itumbi claimed the leaders had differed on whether to inform Sifuna before making the proposal public, with some arguing that the idea should first be taken to the public.
The discussions reportedly also focused on Gachagua’s position in the proposed arrangement.
Itumbi claimed the group discussed offering Gachagua the position of Prime Cabinet Secretary if he does not get the presidential ticket.
“Jofri is our biggest problem, but we must move fast and defy him,” Itumbi quoted one of the alleged participants as saying.
The claims come amid growing discussions among opposition leaders over the formation of a joint ticket to challenge President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election.
Kalonzo has previously said he is open to working with Sifuna, while Gachagua has also suggested that different combinations remain possible.
However, none of the leaders named by Itumbi has publicly confirmed the alleged October 10 plan or the proposed Kalonzo-Sifuna ticket.
The opposition’s final presidential ticket remains unsettled as leaders continue consultations ahead of the 2027 election.
