Kalonzo Musyoka announce takeover as official opposition leader
Wiper party leader and Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition co-principal Kalonzo Musyoka has announced his take over as the official opposition leader after the departure of Raila Odinga, who today launched his bid for the African Union Commission’s (AUC) chairmanship.
Kalonzo declared himself opposition leader following the launch of Raila Odinga’s campaign for the African Union Commission Chairperson seat.
Kalonzo affirmed that there will neither be power vacuum nor will be the coalition be dissolved.
Kalonzo who convened a press confrence coinciding with the State House launch earlier today said Azimio will remain intact despite Raila’s apparent alliance with president William Ruto that has attracted criticism within ranks of the coalition.
“Yes, I am ready to be the leader of the official opposition. This is the team. You will see the Opposition like never before. We may be light in numbers in Parliament but outside we have the people of Kenya.” Kalonzo insisted.
Kalonzo stated that Azimio would not be dissolved and that he did not attend the bid’s launch at State House to demonstrate his status as the official opposition leader despite his support for Raila’s AUC chairmanship bid.
“Azimio will not dissolve. I’m not at State House today, because I want to show you I’m the official opposition leader.” He said.
On his part, Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) party leader Eugene Wamalwa confirmed that there would be no power vacuum within the coalition, as Musyoka will automatically assume the leadership role.
“There is no vacuum in Azimio. Kalonzo is the second-highest-ranking member. He takes over.” Wamalwa said.
Azimio coalition today announced in a statement their support for Raila’s bid, which was launched at the State House in the presence of dignitaries and several African heads of state.
The coalition cited Odinga’s extensive political experience, commitment to Pan-African ideals, and track record of conflict resolution as key reasons for its support.
Azimio la Umoja described Odinga’s candidature as a source of pride for both Kenya and the continent as a whole and expressed confidence in his ability to lead the African Union to greater peace, stability, and prosperity.
“We are donating to Africa and the world our best and most renowned leader.”
Four senior African politicians from Djibouti, Kenya, Madagascar, and Mauritius have declared their candidature for the African Union’s top post.
This year’s role is reserved for an East African representative to replace Faki, a Chadian veteran politician who has been in office since 2017.
The African Union announced four candidates: Mahamoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti, Raila Odinga of Kenya, Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar, and Anil Gayan of Mauritius.
