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“2027 is My Time, Not Raila’s”- Kalonzo
Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has dropped a strong hint at seeking the presidency in the 2027 General Election, declaring that it’s time for him to take a shot at State House after years of supporting others. In an interview with NTV on January 1, Musyoka expressed confidence in his Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition backing his candidacy, suggesting that missing out on the ballot would signify his retirement from politics.
“Giving up my presidential ambitions will actually mean I go home,” Musyoka stated firmly. “The time has come for this country to recognize a leader they have always rejected. I have played the team game, I have supported others. If the country is ready for it, I will go for it.”
His confidence stems from a mix of factors. Musyoka believes he has the backing of his Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition partners, and sees the current political landscape as ripe for his candidacy. He even hinted at President William Ruto himself acknowledging him as a potential competitor in 2027.
“The stars are aligned,” Musyoka declared. “Even Ruto calls me his bigger brother and says he might support me. I believe in consultations, and I learned from Ruto that you need to set your sights on the future early.”
However, he emphasizes that the Azimio coalition is still in discussions and will formally announce its candidate in due course. When asked about Odinga’s potential sixth presidential bid, Musyoka remained diplomatic, stating: “Raila is a very astute leader, we will go the same route unless something unexpected happens. This relationship is truly tested.”
Musyoka also addressed concerns about his ability to win without Odinga on the ballot. “Kalonzo cannot win alone,” he admitted. “But I proved in 2022 that you can help others win without being on the ballot. I urge Raila’s supporters to stand behind me if I become the candidate. We need to work together for the common good.”
Court Outlaws Public Service “Side Hustles”
A landmark ruling in the Nyeri Employment and Labour Court has declared double employment for public officers illegal, sending shockwaves through the civil service and potentially impacting thousands.
The case centered on Agnes Wanjiru, a lecturer at JKUAT who held a part-time position on the Kirinyaga County Assembly Service Board from 2017 to 2022. Justice Onesmus Makau found that Wanjiru’s full-time status as a senior lecturer disqualified her from the part-time board role, making her appointment and subsequent remuneration unlawful.
Wanjiru’s petition sought to prevent the county assembly and EACC from interfering with her second job and challenged any violation of her rights. However, EACC argued her appointment constituted double employment, a violation of Article 77(1) of the Constitution and the Leadership and Integrity Act.
The court’s decision opens doors for EACC to recover all salaries, allowances, and benefits Wanjiru received during her five-year tenure, estimated at Ksh.145,000 a month.
This ruling signifies a broader crackdown on double employment in the public sector. EACC spokesperson Eric Ngumbi revealed investigations into similar cases, including Jennifer Gatiri, accused of holding eight public jobs and defrauding public resources.
Ngumbi highlighted payroll fraud, ghost workers, manipulation of boards, and forged credentials as prevalent tactics for looting county funds. He also criticized governors for failing to implement EACC’s reform recommendations in corruption-prone counties.
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