ODM Senator Moses Otieno Kajwang’ has urged Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka to reconsider some of his political associations if he hopes to secure full ODM backing in the 2027 presidential race.
Speaking during the funeral service of Beryl Odinga – sister to ODM leader Raila Odinga – Kajwang’ said Kalonzo’s closeness to certain figures within the United Opposition, in an indirect reference to ex-Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, had raised discomfort among ODM supporters.
Kajwang’, who represents Homa Bay County, emphasized that ODM had no personal issues with Kalonzo but remained concerned about the company he keeps. “Mr. Musyoka, my senior in law, ODM has absolutely no problem with you. The reservations we have are about some of the friends you choose to walk with. Once you address that, we assure you of full ODM support,” he said, as Kalonzo nodded in acknowledgement. He added that ODM was ready to rally behind a unified opposition candidate if mutual trust was strengthened.
During the same service, #Kalonzo Musyoka thanked the Odinga family for their support over the years and reiterated his commitment to working with ODM ahead of 2027. He downplayed talk of strained relations, saying the opposition must remain united.
“We honour Beryl’s memory by building peace and unity among ourselves. My relationship with Baba and the ODM fraternity remains strong,” Kalonzo said, while pledging to engage with ODM leadership on any concerns raised.
Despite the calls for unity, analysts note that it may be challenging for Kalonzo to distance himself from allies like Gachagua, who wields significant influence in the Mt. Kenya region – a crucial voting bloc. ODM remains internally divided on whether to support Kalonzo, who backed Raila in three past elections, or consider an alternative alliance with President William Ruto, who supported Raila’s histporic 2007 bid as well as the recent AU Commission bid. The debate continues as 2027 political realignments gather shape.