Kalonzo Says He Has No Problem Handing Over Power After One Term
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Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka has said he is willing to serve for one term if the opposition picks him as its presidential candidate and he defeats President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election.
Speaking on Monday, August 10, Kalonzo said he has the experience needed to rescue the country and hand it over to the next generation.
Kalonzo said he is the best candidate to serve as a bridge between the old guard and the youth and facilitate the transfer of power to the younger generation.
“A leader should be able to take it, own it, live through experience, and hand it over to future generations. I think I am that kind of person who will say, ‘Yes, he took over leadership when the country needed a rescue operation and handed it over’. I see myself as a bridge to the future,” Kalonzo said.
Kalonzo Says Serving for One Term Will Depend on Kenyans
Kalonzo said he is open to discussions about serving for one term, adding that the decision would largely depend on what Kenyans say during his first term.
“I am not sure about one term. We will discuss that; I am very open. It can be five years or 10 years. It will depend on Kenyans,” he said.
When pressed further, Kalonzo said he has no problem with handing over power after five years.
Moreover, he said he has learnt from experience that it is better to hand over power after serving well during the first term, while still popular.
“I have no problem handing over the country after five years. From my experience, if you do well in the first term, you’d better leave when you are popular,” he added.
Political Debts
Besides, Kalonzo said he does not believe that supporters of the late Raila Odinga owe him anything, despite his support for the former Prime Minister in three presidential elections.
Kalonzo said he does not believe in political debts and stood by Raila because he believed it was the right thing to do at the time.
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“I don’t believe in this business of owing and paying political debts. I believe it was right for me to stand by my brother, Raila Odinga. I felt a sense of loss. He was one man I hoped would become president, but he did not. I did the best I could.”
Additionally, Kalonzo said a presidential candidate must engage Kenyans instead of relying on political debts.
“You have to present yourself before the Kenyan electorate and present yourself,” he said.
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United opposition leaders during a past meeting. PHOTO/FILE.
