'He has panicked...' Kalonzo rules out working with Ruto, announces Azimio leaders meeting

Speaking at the SKM Command Centre on Thursday after meeting members of the Linda Mwananchi movement, Kalonzo said there was no possibility of him teaming up with the President despite what he claimed were repeated attempts to court him.

"I want to tell Mr William Ruto, please stop imagining that I can ever join you. We will meet at the ballot," Kalonzo declared.

"Ruto has panicked with his team. I want to assure the citizens of this country, if I will be the last man to drive Ruto out, I will."

The former Vice President further claimed the Kenya Kwanza administration had sent intermediaries in an attempt to persuade him to work with the President, warning the Linda Mwananchi movement against abandoning the push for a united front.

"They're sending all kinds of emissaries. Anybody looking back will be a betrayer of national consciousness," he stated. 

Kalonzo urged members of the Linda Mwananchi movement to continue mobilising support for the opposition, saying unity would be key in the polls. 

"Reach out to everyone, including Wamalwa and Wamunyoro. We officially enter the election year in three days," he stated.

Kalonzo further revealed that the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya alliance would hold a meeting on Monday to chart the way forward, inviting the Linda Mwananchi faction to hold discussions once they conclude the registration process. 

"I wish Linda Mwananchi well. We're waiting for you. On Monday, I am the party leader of Azimio la Umoja One Kenya. Once you've sorted out your registration details and btw... we have a meeting on Monday. The council, chaired by Uhuru Kenyatta, and the executive, which I chair as party leader, have visualised the way forward and will continue to share with you," he stated. 

Kalonzo's remarks come a day after the Wiper Patriotic Front issued a statement reaffirming its unwavering support for him amid what it described as a sustained campaign of misinformation and politically motivated attacks.

The party insisted Kalonzo remained fully committed to the United Alternative Government coalition and dismissed claims that he had held talks with President Ruto on a possible political alliance ahead of the 2027 election.