Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo has ruled out the possibility of Wiper Democratic Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka joining President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration ahead of the 2027 general election.
Speaking during an interview with Citizen TV, Maanzo, a close ally of Kalonzo, said there was no ongoing engagement between the Wiper leader and Ruto regarding a possible political partnership, despite reports that sections of Kenya Kwanza were keen on bringing him into government.
“Kalonzo will not join government and he has communicated it clearly. I was with him two weeks ago and he said it clearly,” Maanzo said.
The senator acknowledged reports suggesting that some Kenya Kwanza legislators were pushing for Kalonzo’s inclusion in the government, but insisted such efforts would not succeed.
“I have seen these news articles of bids to court Kalonzo to join government. It is true Kenya Kwanza MPs have been saying that is what they want, but this will not happen,” he said.
Maanzo’s remarks come amid growing political speculation over possible realignments ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with Ruto’s allies seeking to consolidate support while opposition leaders position themselves for the contest.
Reports that the government is making renewed efforts to engage Kalonzo have sparked debate in political circles, with his support viewed as a potential factor in shaping future alliances.
Kalonzo, who has remained a key opposition figure since the 2022 elections, has previously worked with different political formations and has maintained his national leadership ambitions beyond his Ukambani base.
Maanzo also weighed in on the growing influence of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, saying the emergence of new opposition voices had strengthened the political contest ahead of 2027.
“After the rise of Sifuna, things have become thick and I can assure you that they know the best candidate for the opposition to send them home is Kalonzo,” he said.
The senator described Kalonzo as a leader with the experience and maturity required to lead the opposition, arguing that his track record in government and national appeal made him a strong contender.
“He has got the maturity, experience and when you have an opportunity to send this government home, you cannot waste it,” Maanzo said.
A political wave around Sifuna has continued to gain momentum, with supporters portraying the Nairobi senator as one of the emerging figures shaping Kenya’s next generation of leadership.
Known for his outspoken style, sharp political messaging and ability to connect with younger voters, Sifuna has increasingly become a prominent voice in national political debates.
Maanzo further claimed that even state agencies were aware of the political calculations surrounding Kalonzo’s potential candidacy, saying opposition forces understood the significance of presenting a strong challenger in the next election.
