Sonko urges Kalonzo to consider Ruto alliance if denied opposition presidential ticket

Former Nairobi Governor and National Economic Development Party (NEDP) leader Mike Sonko has challenged Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka to consider joining President William Ruto’s government if he fails to secure the Opposition’s presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Sonko argued that Kalonzo should abandon another uncertain presidential bid and instead negotiate for a senior government position, including Deputy President or Prime Minister, arguing that such an arrangement could give Ukambani greater political influence and improve its development prospects.

Speaking during an interview on NTV, Sonko said Kalonzo had made three unsuccessful attempts at the presidency and should approach the 2027 election as a critical moment in his political career.

“This is his last bullet and his last chance. If the Opposition does not give him the opportunity to be its presidential flagbearer, he should not gamble again. He would be better off becoming Ruto’s Deputy President or Prime Minister,” Sonko said.

Sonko questioned the political strategy that has kept Ukambani aligned with the Opposition since Kalonzo left the Vice Presidency, arguing that the region had yet to translate its political support into meaningful development gains.

He maintained that the Kamba community had repeatedly been drawn into political arrangements that helped divide votes without securing commensurate benefits for the region.

The former Governor urged Kalonzo and other Ukambani leaders to reconsider traditional political alliances and prioritise negotiations that would deliver tangible benefits, particularly in water provision, road infrastructure and economic empowerment.

Sonko insisted that advocating for Ukambani's interests should not be interpreted as tribalism, saying the region deserved stronger representation and a meaningful stake in the country's next national leadership.

He also acknowledged Kalonzo's political contribution, maintaining that his leadership could have delivered more for the region had he successfully ascended to the presidency.

Sonko's remarks come amid intensified efforts to consolidate his political influence across the three Ukambani counties of Machakos, Makueni and Kitui ahead of the 2027 elections.

He has been holding consultations with regional leaders, including Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua, Commissioner Muthama and other political figures and aspirants, as he pushes for greater unity among Ukambani leaders.

During a recent visit to the region, Sonko attended a church service at AIC Tala, where he expressed optimism about what he described as renewed hope and unity among residents.

He called on the community to move away from internal political rivalries and collectively pursue an agenda centred on economic transformation.

“We cannot continue suffering in poverty while other communities prosper through unity. Our people deserve better!” he declared.