Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has renewed his call for opposition unity, warning that Kenya is taking the wrong path and needs a stronger push for constitutionalism, good governance and respect for the rule of law.
Kalonzo while addressing the media on Thursday said opposition parties must widen their cooperation and build a stronger political movement capable of defending the principles contained in the Constitution.
“Kenya is headed in the wrong direction, and we have a responsibility to change course,” Kalonzo said.
The Wiper leader spoke after chairing a joint meeting of the Azimio Council and National Executive Committee, where opposition leaders considered ways of deepening their cooperation.
He said the opposition’s stand on constitutionalism should not only focus on political matters but also extend to how people from other countries living and working in Kenya are treated.
Kalonzo singled out Burundian nationals, saying their membership of the East African Community should be recognised and respected.
“Our brothers and sisters from Burundi are part of the East African Community, and they deserve dignity, not suspicion,” he said.
He further urged Kenya to preserve friendly relations with neighbouring states and remain committed to the goals of regional integration.
“Kenya must remain a good neighbour and honour the spirit of East African integration,” Kalonzo said.
His comments followed a recent government directive affecting foreign nationals engaged in some small-scale businesses in Kenya. President William Ruto directed that certain enterprises be set aside for Kenyan citizens.
Foreign nationals have been allowed 90 days to put their immigration, work permit, business registration and licensing matters in order.
Kalonzo said such government action must be handled in a way that respects the rights and dignity of foreign nationals.
The opposition leader also backed the planned Linda Mwananchi gathering set for Sunday, saying Kenyans must be allowed to exercise their constitutional freedoms peacefully.
“Every Kenyan has a constitutional right to assemble, associate and express themselves peacefully, a right we will defend,” he said.
He said the call to restore constitutionalism should apply to all people within Kenya, regardless of their nationality.
“Restoring Kenya to constitutionalism means restoring dignity to everyone within her borders,” Kalonzo said.
The Azimio meeting comes as opposition parties seek to strengthen their cooperation and coordinate their political activities ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Kalonzo said the coalition’s leadership would continue efforts to create a more united opposition focused on good governance, constitutionalism and the rule of law.
He said the opposition also wanted to ensure that constitutional freedoms were protected and that political competition ahead of the election remained peaceful.