Kalonzo Vows to Stay in Opposition, Condemns Boniface Mwangi Arrest

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has firmly rejected mounting pressure to join President William Ruto’s government, affirming his continued role in opposition politics. Speaking on Saturday, Kalonzo declared his unwavering stance against what he termed a “rogue and criminal regime,” vowing to hold the Kenya Kwanza administration accountable for its failures and injustices.

“I will never join this rogue and criminal regime,” Kalonzo said. “The Ruto dictatorship is not interested in peace. It feeds on fear, violence, and intimidation. But we shall not remain silent nor be silenced.”

His remarks follow weeks of pressure from Kenya Kwanza allies, including Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua, who recently urged Kalonzo to part ways with the opposition over its “divisive” tactics. Mutua questioned Kalonzo’s silence, particularly concerning opposition figure Rigathi Gachagua’s rhetoric.

Meanwhile, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula advised Kalonzo not to let others dictate his alliances. “Your friends are not necessarily someone’s friends, and your enemies are not someone’s enemies,” Wetang’ula said during a rally in Kitui on June 9.

Kalonzo also condemned the Saturday arrest of activist Boniface Mwangi, who was apprehended at his Lukenya home in Machakos County by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). Mwangi is accused of facilitating terrorist activities during the June 25 protests.

“I strongly condemn the arrest of civil rights activist Boniface Mwangi,” Kalonzo said, calling Mwangi a “bold and fearless advocate for truth and justice.” He confirmed the opposition had dispatched legal representatives to secure the activist’s release.

DCI confirmed Mwangi’s arrest, linking him to alleged terror-related coordination. His detention has sparked fresh concerns over the government’s handling of dissent and civil liberties.