Sonko Urges Kalonzo to Consider Ruto Alliance if Denied Opposition Presidential Ticket

NAIROBI, Kenya — Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has urged Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka to reconsider his political strategy ahead of the 2027 General Election, suggesting that he should consider an alliance with President William Ruto if the opposition denies him the presidential ticket.

Speaking during an interview with NTV on Thursday, November 12, Sonko argued that Kalonzo deserved an opportunity to lead the opposition's presidential campaign, citing what he described as repeated sacrifices the Wiper leader had made in previous elections.

Sonko pointed out that Kalonzo had shelved his presidential ambitions on three occasions to support the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in previous presidential contests.

He maintained that the opposition should recognise Kalonzo's political contribution and give him an opportunity to contest for the country's top seat in 2027.

According to Sonko, if the opposition fails to settle on Kalonzo as its presidential candidate, he should consider negotiating a senior position within Ruto's administration, including the Deputy President or Prime Minister position.

Sonko Says 2027 Could Be Kalonzo's Last Presidential Opportunity

The former governor described the upcoming election as a defining moment in Kalonzo's political career, warning him against repeatedly sacrificing his presidential ambitions for other political leaders.

Sonko argued that another unsuccessful attempt to secure the opposition ticket could leave Kalonzo with limited political options.

He also questioned the political arrangements that have kept the Ukambani region aligned with the opposition, arguing that the community should prioritise political negotiations that deliver tangible development benefits.

He cited key priorities such as improved road infrastructure, access to water and economic empowerment, saying the region deserved a stronger voice in national government.

Sonko further maintained that joining the government should not automatically be interpreted as political betrayal if the arrangement secures meaningful representation and development opportunities for the region.

Kalonzo Previously Rejected Working With Ruto

Sonko's proposal comes against the backdrop of Kalonzo's repeated public rejection of suggestions that he could join President Ruto's administration.

On November 1, 2026, the Wiper leader dismissed reports suggesting that he was being courted by State House, insisting that his political ambition remained focused on challenging Ruto in the 2027 General Election.

Kalonzo described the Kenya Kwanza administration as a government of predators and maintained that he had no intention of joining it.

He instead challenged the President to prepare for a contest at the ballot.

His position presents a potential political disagreement with Sonko's latest proposal, particularly as opposition leaders continue negotiating how to select a single presidential candidate.

Opposition Faces Pressure to Agree on 2027 Flagbearer

The latest remarks come at a time when opposition leaders are facing increasing pressure to resolve internal differences and agree on a presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 elections.

Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta recently urged opposition leaders, including Kalonzo Musyoka, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, to unite and settle on one candidate.

Uhuru argued that the opposition needed to put aside individual ambitions and focus on presenting a united political front capable of challenging the ruling administration.

The question of who will carry the opposition's presidential ticket remains one of the major issues shaping political negotiations ahead of the next General Election.

What Sonko's Remarks Could Mean for Ukambani Politics

Sonko's intervention also reflects the growing political significance of the Ukambani region, comprising Machakos, Kitui and Makueni counties.

With Kalonzo remaining one of the region's most influential political figures, decisions surrounding his 2027 political direction could have significant implications for both the opposition coalition and President Ruto's re-election strategy.

Sonko has been engaging regional leaders and mobilising support around what he describes as the need for greater political unity and development-focused negotiations.

Whether Kalonzo will consider Sonko's proposal remains uncertain. However, the remarks have added another dimension to the ongoing debate over opposition unity, regional political interests and possible alliances ahead of the 2027 presidential contest.