Waititu Urges Support for Kalonzo
He further advocated for the leadership of Kalonzo Musyoka, expressing his desire for a return to the values of the Kibaki administration.
Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu. Photo/Pulse Kenya.
Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu has publicly voiced his discontent with the current administration, particularly regarding its treatment of Mount Kenya leaders and the promises made to the region’s residents.
In a bold statement, Waititu highlighted the role of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in championing the Mount Kenya vote during the last election, only to be sidelined by the very government he helped bring to power.
He further advocated for the leadership of Kalonzo Musyoka, expressing his desire for a return to the values of the Kibaki administration.
Waititu’s remarks, made on November 3, 2024, reflect growing dissatisfaction among some leaders from the Mount Kenya region.
“Gachagua, who led Mount Kenya and was at the forefront when voting for this government, was fought and thrown out of the window,” he stated. “As Mount Kenya residents, we expect you to keep your end of the bargain when we make a deal with you.”
The former governor’s comments underscore the sense of betrayal that some local leaders feel, as they observe the Deputy President’s reduced influence within the government.
Gachagua, a prominent figure in the Mount Kenya region, had been instrumental in rallying support for the ruling party, with promises that his constituents would have a significant role in the country’s leadership and economic growth.
However, according to Waititu, these promises have gone unfulfilled, leaving the community feeling overlooked.
Waititu also reminisced about the era of former President Mwai Kibaki, a period he described as one of substantial progress and impactful reforms.
He praised Kibaki’s administration, particularly for introducing free primary education, a policy that transformed Kenya’s education landscape and lifted many families out of poverty.
Waititu credited Kalonzo Musyoka, who served as Vice President during part of Kibaki’s tenure, as a leader who contributed to the success and stability of that government.
“I remember Kibaki’s government with Kalonzo. Their government brought free education,” Waititu stated. “Kalonzo should be president in 2027 and lead the way he led with Kibaki. Let us choose someone who led and progress was seen.”
Waititu’s call for Kalonzo’s candidacy in 2027 comes as a surprising endorsement. Kalonzo, the Wiper Democratic Movement leader, has long been seen as a stabilizing figure in Kenyan politics, often positioning himself as a unifying force in a deeply polarized political landscape.
His leadership during the Kibaki administration is remembered fondly by many Kenyans for its relative economic stability and progress.
With the 2027 elections approaching, Waititu’s endorsement adds momentum to the potential bid by Kalonzo, who has yet to officially announce his candidacy.
Political analysts suggest that Waititu’s support could signal a shift among some Mount Kenya leaders toward new alliances, especially as they express dissatisfaction with the current administration.
If more leaders from the region rally behind Kalonzo, it could create a formidable coalition capable of challenging the incumbent regime.
Waititu’s statements highlight the complex political landscape in Kenya as the country heads towards another election cycle.
His remarks reflect a growing desire among some leaders and residents of Mount Kenya for a government that delivers on its promises and prioritizes tangible progress.
As political alignments continue to shift, the potential backing of Kalonzo Musyoka by figures like Waititu might reshape the race for Kenya’s highest office.
For Kalonzo, gaining the support of influential Mount Kenya leaders like Waititu could be instrumental in appealing to a broader voter base, especially in regions that have traditionally supported the ruling coalition.
Waititu’s appeal to revisit the Kibaki era’s principles of governance may resonate with voters looking for a return to stability and development-oriented leadership.
As the 2027 election nears, Kenya’s political alliances are likely to evolve rapidly.
With Waititu’s vocal dissatisfaction, Mount Kenya leaders may continue to seek alternatives to secure their region’s interests.
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