Kalonzo Clarifies Pulling Out of Monday Protests

Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka speaking at a rally in Kakamega County on February 25, 2023.
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka speaking at a rally in Kakamega County on February 25, 2023.
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Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka, on Saturday, March 18, denied allegations that he had pulled out of Monday, March 20, planned protests leading to State House.

Communications Lead of the Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka Command Centre, Paloma Gatabaki, flagged a viral poster alleging that the former Vice President had withdrawn from the protests. 

Kalonzo's communication team insisted that the Wiper Leader was still advocating for a lower cost of living alongside former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

"Kalonzo Musyoka's stance is clear and unequivocal: Lower the cost of living and end electoral malpractice. No amount of intimidation will alter our stand," Gatabaki stated.

Raila and Kalonzo
Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition Leaders Kalonzo Musyoka (Left) and Raila Odinga (Right) during the launch of Mass Action on Thursday, March 9, 2023.
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The viral poster insinuated that Kalonzo had taken a step back to pursue the interests of his supporters.

"I would like to distance myself from protests (maandamano). My people have suffered enough under selfish individuals, and I don't want to see them fall into that trap again," the fake poster claimed. 

It was then shared on social media despite Kalonzo's declaration on Friday, March 17, during a series of rallies in Kiambu County.

Kalonzo vowed to lead peaceful protests to the State House before presenting their demands to President William Ruto.

At the same time, Jubilee Party Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni granted its staff a public holiday on Monday, March 20.

The party also informed its members that their offices would be closed to allow them to participate in the mass action

"In compliance with the Azimio la Umoja, One Kenya Alliance's leader Raila Odinga's directive, please note that Monday, March 20 is to be considered a public holiday," the internal memo read in part.

"As such, our Headquarters at Jubilee House, Kileleshwa, as well as our county, constituency and ward offices, will remain closed," Kioni added.

Jubilee Party Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni at a past event
Jubilee Party Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni at a past event
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