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Babu Owino’s Nairobi Governor Ambitions Gain Momentum After Endorsement by Two MPs

By Malticks - July 25, 2026

Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has received a significant political boost after two lawmakers publicly endorsed his reported bid for the Nairobi gubernatorial seat ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The endorsements were made during a public participation forum organized by the National Assembly’s Budget and Appropriations Committee in Utawala, where leaders praised Babu Owino’s leadership style and growing political influence among urban voters.

Among those who openly backed his ambitions was Florence Jematiah, who commended the outspoken legislator for what she described as strong development-oriented leadership in Embakasi East Constituency.

She told residents that Babu had demonstrated the ability to deliver projects and connect with ordinary wananchi, qualities she believes could benefit Nairobi County if he eventually contests for governor.

Kitilai Ole Ntutu also expressed support for the youthful legislator in a lighthearted remark that drew laughter from the crowd.

Ole Ntutu jokingly stated that should Babu Owino become Nairobi governor, he would then seek to contest for the Embakasi East parliamentary seat himself.

Speaking during the event, Babu Owino thanked the two lawmakers for their endorsement and reflected on his political journey from student leadership to national politics.

He revealed that he and Florence Jematiah were once student leaders together at the University of Nairobi, saying their shared background shaped their leadership experiences and public service ambitions.

The MP has recently fueled speculation about his future political plans after hinting that he may run for Nairobi governor in 2027.

His remarks have generated widespread debate within political circles, especially among youth and urban voters who view him as one of the country’s most energetic opposition figures.

Babu Owino previously stated that if elected Nairobi governor, he would serve only one term before shifting focus toward a possible presidential bid in 2032.

While supporters have praised his confidence and long-term political vision, critics argue that discussions about presidential ambitions may be premature.

Political analysts note that Nairobi remains one of Kenya’s most strategic political battlegrounds, meaning early endorsements and alliances could play a major role in shaping the next election cycle.

They also point out that Babu Owino’s visibility, grassroots mobilization skills, and appeal among younger voters continue to strengthen his position in national politics.

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Sifuna Urges Government to Respect Court Orders and Uphold Rule of Law

By Malticks - June 19, 2026

Nairobi Senator and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has called on President William Ruto’s administration to respect court orders, warning that continued defiance undermines the rule of law and the values Kenyans voted for.

In a statement shared on his social media platforms on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, Sifuna expressed concern over reports that several government officials, including Cabinet ministers and principal secretaries, have ignored or delayed compliance with court directives.

He said such actions weaken democratic institutions and erode public trust in government.

Sifuna reminded the government that respect for the rule of law was a central promise during the 2022 general election campaigns.

He argued that court orders are not optional and must be obeyed regardless of political convenience or disagreement with judicial decisions.

According to the Senator, abandoning court orders is equivalent to abandoning the core values upon which the country is governed.

He noted that Kenya’s Constitution clearly outlines respect for the law as one of the key national principles, and failure to uphold it places the country on a dangerous path.

“Without respect for court orders, everything else becomes meaningless,” Sifuna said, adding that economic development and governance reforms cannot succeed where the rule of law is ignored.

He insisted that values must remain central to national leadership, even amid political tension and public debate.

The ODM Secretary General also pointed out that President Ruto had previously committed himself to respecting judicial independence and court decisions.

Sifuna said the current situation appears to contradict those assurances, raising questions about the government’s commitment to constitutionalism.

His remarks come at a time when the government is facing criticism from opposition leaders and civil society groups over alleged interference with institutions, including the Judiciary and county governments.

Some critics argue that selective obedience to court rulings threatens the separation of powers and weakens accountability.

Sifuna has in recent months emerged as one of the most vocal critics of the Kenya Kwanza administration.

He has accused the government of undermining devolution and marginalising opposition voices, claims the government has repeatedly denied.

Despite ODM’s participation in the broad-based political arrangement formed last year, Sifuna has maintained a firm stance against what he views as compromises on key principles.

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Herman Manyora Says Winnie Odinga’s ODM Camp Acts in Party’s Best Interest

By Malticks - April 26, 2026

Political analyst Herman Manyora has weighed in on the growing divisions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), offering a strong defence of the faction associated with Winnie Odinga.

According to Manyora, the group aligned to the late Raila Odinga’s daughter represents the true spirit and future of the party.

Writing on social media on Monday, Manyora agreed with views earlier expressed by Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai that ODM must remain a national party rather than being viewed as a family inheritance.

However, he was quick to add that Winnie Odinga’s political stance should not be misunderstood or dismissed.

Manyora argued that Winnie’s faction enjoys the backing of the party’s majority and includes leaders who are deeply rooted in ODM’s founding ideals.

He named Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi and veteran politician James Orengo as key figures within the group.

“Winnie is on the side of the majority. Where she is, that is where ODM truly is,” Manyora stated, adding that the leaders aligned with her are committed to protecting Raila Odinga’s legacy and the party’s long-term future.

The analyst’s comments come amid heightened tensions within ODM following the death of its longtime leader Raila Odinga and ongoing debates over the party’s direction, leadership structure and possible political alliances ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The divisions have been sharpened by coalition talks between ODM and President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA), a move that has been met with resistance from a section of ODM leaders who fear it could dilute the party’s identity.

Robert Alai has been among the most vocal critics of Winnie Odinga, questioning her influence within the party and her role in defending leaders opposed to the proposed cooperation with UDA.

Alai has argued that Winnie lacks formal authority within ODM’s top decision-making organs and should not position herself as a defender of party rebels.

“She cannot protect people when she is not even part of the Central Management Committee. ODM is not a family inheritance,” Alai wrote in an earlier post.

The disagreement intensified after Winnie Odinga and her brother Raila Odinga Jr. organised a rally at Kamukunji Grounds in Kibra, shortly after another ODM faction led by Oburu Oginga held a consultative meeting in the same area.

Both gatherings attracted large crowds, highlighting the continued influence of the Odinga family and the deep divisions within the party.

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"I Repeat, I Cannot Be SG of Mediocrity" Sifuna Remains Firm on His Move from ODM

By Malticks - March 30, 2026

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President Ruto Under Fire as Rigathi Gachagua Vows Action Against Him Over Public Anger

By Malticks - March 18, 2026

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Matiang’i Under Fire Over Controversial Remarks on First Lady Rachel as Ruto Makes This Bold Move

By Malticks - March 18, 2026

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Gakuya Calls for Sakaja’s Impeachment Over Nairobi Leadership Concerns

By Malticks - March 04, 2026

Embakasi North MP James Gakuya has renewed calls for the impeachment of Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, saying the move is necessary due to what he described as poor leadership and lack of progress in managing the capital.

Speaking during a media interview on Friday, February 20, 2026, Gakuya said efforts to remove the governor from office should not be delayed any further.

He argued that concerns about Sakaja’s performance have been raised repeatedly by Members of the County Assembly (MCAs), who he said have closely monitored the county’s operations.

According to the legislator, some county leaders had previously reached a conclusion that the governor was not delivering on his mandate.

He noted that earlier attempts to impeach Sakaja had stalled, despite growing dissatisfaction within sections of the county leadership.

Gakuya claimed that political agreements at the national level played a role in slowing down the impeachment process in the past.

However, he insisted that the matter should now be revisited in the interest of improving service delivery in Nairobi.

The MP also criticised the recent move involving cooperation between Nairobi County and the national government.

He interpreted the development as a sign that the county administration was struggling to effectively manage key functions.

He argued that the need for increased national government involvement raised questions about the county’s capacity to run the city independently.

According to him, stronger accountability measures were necessary to ensure Nairobi residents receive better services.

However, President William Ruto recently clarified that there is no transfer of functions from the Nairobi County Government to the national administration.

Speaking at State House earlier this week, the President said he has no intention of running the city and that the governor remains fully in charge.

Ruto explained that the agreement between the two levels of government is meant to strengthen cooperation rather than take over county roles.

He emphasised that Nairobi County retains its legal mandate and responsibility for managing the capital.

The Head of State noted that the national government’s role is to support the city because Nairobi’s performance has a direct impact on the country’s economy and overall development.

The cooperation framework focuses on key priority areas aimed at improving service delivery and infrastructure.

The debate over the county-national government partnership has sparked political reactions, with some leaders raising concerns about accountability and governance at City Hall.

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Nyutu Says State ‘Panicking’ as Opposition Rallies Draw Huge Crowds

By Malticks - February 16, 2026

Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu has claimed that the government is increasingly uneasy following the growing popularity of opposition rallies across the country, saying the large turnout at a recent Kitengela meeting has unsettled President William Ruto’s administration.

Speaking during a television interview on Monday, February 16, 2026, Nyutu argued that the massive attendance at a rally addressed by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna reflects rising public frustration over the state of the economy and governance.

According to the senator, the government’s response to the growing crowds has been to disrupt opposition gatherings through police action.

He linked the events in Kitengela, where chaos broke out and one attendee lost his life, to what he described as a wider strategy aimed at discouraging citizens from attending such meetings.

Nyutu began by sending condolences to the family of Vincent Oyomo, who died following the incident. He claimed the situation escalated after police used teargas on people who had gathered peacefully to listen to their leaders.

He questioned the justification for the use of force, arguing that the crowd did not pose any threat to property or public safety. In his view, the action was unnecessary and only served to create fear among supporters.

The senator further claimed that the government had briefly scaled back interference in opposition events after public criticism over the earlier teargas incident at a church service in Othaya, Nyeri County.

During that period, he said, rallies held in areas such as Gitugi and Othaya proceeded without disruption and attracted significant numbers.

However, Nyutu said the situation changed again in Kitengela. He noted that Sifuna had warned during a church service that there were plans to interfere with the rally, yet thousands still turned up.

According to him, the continued large turnouts demonstrate that many Kenyans are dissatisfied and are seeking alternative leadership.

He argued that the growing crowds challenge the government’s efforts to project strong public support.

“When opposition leaders are allowed to hold meetings freely, the gatherings become bigger and more successful,” Nyutu said, adding that this trend has made the administration uneasy.

The senator accused authorities of attempting to control the political narrative by breaking up rallies and limiting public participation.

He suggested that such actions were meant to reduce the visibility of opposition support and discourage future attendance.

Nyutu also criticised government spokespersons, saying they have struggled to explain the recent police operations. He described the Kitengela incident as part of a broader pattern in which opposition activities face obstruction.

The remarks come at a time of rising political tension between the government and a coalition of opposition leaders who have been holding public meetings under various campaign-style tours.

The opposition has repeatedly accused security agencies of targeting their events, while also demanding accountability from the leadership of the National Police Service.

Although the government has not issued a detailed response to Nyutu’s latest claims, officials have previously maintained that police interventions are guided by security considerations and the need to maintain public order.

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Secret Numbers Empire: Manyora Reveals Rigathi’s Quiet Grip on Nairobi Politics

By Malticks - February 05, 2026

Political analyst Herman Manyora has stirred fresh debate after claiming that former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua wields significant, and often underestimated, political influence within Nairobi.

According to Manyora, despite being widely associated with Mt Kenya politics, Rigathi has quietly built a strong support base in the capital that could play a decisive role in future elections.

Speaking during a recent political discussion, Manyora described Nairobi as a strategic political nerve center where power is not always loud or visible, but carefully organized.

He noted that Rigathi’s strength lies in his ability to mobilize numbers, maintain key alliances, and stay connected to influential political and community networks within the city. This, he argued, gives the former deputy president a “silent grip” on Nairobi’s political direction.

Manyora emphasized that Nairobi is more than just a voting bloc; it is a trendsetter in national politics. Political movements that gain traction in the capital often influence narratives across the country.

In that context, Rigathi’s continued relevance in Nairobi signals broader ambitions and positioning ahead of upcoming political contests.

According to the analyst, Rigathi has deliberately remained engaged with political stakeholders, opinion shapers, and grassroots groups in the city, allowing him to consolidate influence without necessarily dominating headlines.

This approach, Manyora suggested, reflects a long-term strategy focused on organization rather than public spectacle.

Observers of Nairobi politics agree that urban centers demand a different kind of political engagement—one built on networks, issue-based conversations, and coalition-building across ethnic and social lines.

Manyora argued that leaders who master this environment are often better placed to shape national outcomes, especially during closely contested elections.

Rigathi Gachagua has remained active in political discourse since leaving office, regularly addressing national issues and maintaining contact with his supporters.

While he has not publicly responded to Manyora’s remarks, the comments have reignited public interest in his political future and his actual influence beyond traditional strongholds.

The discussion has also reopened conversations about Nairobi’s shifting political alignments. As the capital continues to grow in population and diversity, its voters are increasingly seen as kingmakers.

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Matiang’i Criticises Costly Political Rallies, Urges Investment in Education

By Malticks - January 25, 2026

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary and Jubilee Deputy Party Leader Fred Matiang’i has strongly criticised the growing culture of political rallies in the country, saying they waste public money that could be better used to improve education.

Speaking during a televised interview aired on Monday morning, Matiang’i said government leaders are focusing too much on political showmanship instead of addressing the real problems facing ordinary Kenyans.

He argued that constant public gatherings, convoys, and mobilised crowds offer little value to citizens struggling with the high cost of living and failing public services.

Matiang’i claimed that many of the rallies are artificially organised, with people transported in buses and paid to attend using public resources.

According to him, leaders later use these crowds to claim popularity while essential sectors remain underfunded.

He insisted that Kenya has enough resources to serve its people if priorities are set right. In his view, the problem is not lack of money but how it is spent.

He challenged leaders to redirect funds used for political activities to areas that directly benefit citizens.

Education was at the centre of Matiang’i’s message. He proposed that money currently spent on organising rallies be channelled to the Ministry of Education.

He said investing in schools, teachers, and learning materials would have a lasting impact on the country’s future.

The former CS, who previously served in the Education docket, said the sector is facing serious challenges that require urgent attention.

He noted that many schools are struggling due to reduced government funding, rising operational costs, and confusion around education policies.

In recent weeks, Matiang’i has repeatedly raised concerns about what he described as a deepening crisis in the education system.

He warned that parents, teachers, and school administrators are being overwhelmed by sudden policy changes that were not well explained or properly discussed.

He questioned why the government reduced school capitation at a time when institutions are already under pressure.

According to him, the lack of clear communication has created uncertainty and disrupted learning in many schools across the country.

Matiang’i called on the government to urgently bring together key education stakeholders, including teachers’ unions, parents, and school heads, to find lasting solutions.

He said meaningful dialogue is the only way to restore order and confidence in the education sector.

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Ruto Dismisses Opposition Claims, Says Kenya Is Not a Failed State

By Malticks - January 23, 2026

President William Ruto has strongly dismissed claims by the opposition that Kenya is a failed state, saying such remarks do not reflect the reality on the ground.

Speaking on Friday, January 23, 2026, at State House Nairobi during the commissioning of interns under the national housing programme, the President said Kenya is on a clear path of economic recovery and growth. He argued that the opposition’s narrative is based on pessimism rather than facts.

Ruto said that if there is any failure being spoken about, then it exists only in the minds of critics who have chosen to ignore progress made since his administration took office in 2022.

According to the President, Kenya’s economy has significantly improved and is now ranked among the top six largest economies in Africa.

He noted that the country has overtaken some of its regional peers, attributing the growth to disciplined economic policies and tough but necessary decisions taken by his government.

“We made deliberate choices to stabilize and grow the economy. Today, I can confidently say that Kenya is not where it was in 2022,” Ruto told the gathering.

He further pointed to the rise in foreign exchange reserves as proof of economic stability. Ruto said reserves have grown from about 7 billion dollars, which covered roughly two and a half months of imports, to a historic high of over 12 billion dollars.

The President also used the occasion to defend government development projects that have come under heavy criticism from the opposition.

He highlighted the affordable housing programme, the universal healthcare plan, and other state-led initiatives, saying they are already delivering results.

Ruto argued that the main challenge facing the country is not development, but leadership. He accused some political leaders of focusing on political attacks instead of offering constructive alternatives to improve the lives of Kenyans.

“The issue is not that Kenya has failed. The issue is that some leaders have failed to rise above politics and support national development,” he said.

The opposition has consistently questioned the viability of government projects, especially the housing programme, calling them wasteful and unsustainable.

However, Ruto insisted that these initiatives are creating jobs, supporting young professionals, and driving long-term growth.

He also expressed optimism that Kenya’s economy will continue to improve in the coming months, urging citizens to remain hopeful and supportive of government efforts.

Ruto’s remarks come amid rising political tensions, with economic performance becoming a central issue in the ongoing debate between the government and the opposition.

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Babu Owino Says He Will Not Back Down as ODM Leadership Tensions Grow

By Malticks - January 20, 2026

Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has firmly stated that he will not withdraw from his ambition to lead the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), even as internal disagreements within the party continue to intensify.

Speaking during a radio interview on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, Owino said pressure from fellow party leaders has not shaken his resolve.

He insisted that he is ready to face any challenge and will push ahead with his leadership bid when the party holds its National Delegates Conference (NDC).

Owino said his decision to seek ODM leadership was not made lightly and should not be misunderstood.

According to him, those opposing his bid have failed to take time to understand his vision for the party and the country at large.

“I only move forward. I do not have a reverse gear,” Owino said, adding that leadership demands courage and consistency, especially in difficult moments.

He maintained that criticism and resistance are part of politics and will not force him to abandon his mission.

The outspoken MP claimed that opinion polls show strong public support for his leadership bid. He cited Infotrack survey results, which he said ranked him ahead of other senior ODM figures.

According to Owino, the polls suggest he is the preferred choice among many party supporters, and he believes the final outcome at the NDC will surprise those currently in power.

Owino also addressed concerns that some youth leaders and influential party figures have distanced themselves from his bid.

He said political differences should not be interpreted as rejection, noting that ODM remains a broad party built on diverse views and internal debate.

Touching on the party’s future, Owino said his goal is to strengthen ODM and position it to win national leadership.

He explained that his approach would focus on unity, inclusion, and expanding the party’s support base across the country.

The legislator further revealed his long-term political ambitions, saying he plans to contest the Nairobi governorship in the 2027 general election.

He described the move as part of a broader plan to prepare for a presidential bid in 2032.

Owino dismissed claims that he is being sponsored or influenced by powerful figures within or outside the party.

He insisted that his political journey is driven by the support of ordinary Kenyans and his belief in accountable leadership.

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Ndegwa Njiru Questions Ruto’s Commitment to Kenya’s ‘Singapore Dream’

By Malticks - January 20, 2026

Lawyer and political commentator Ndegwa Njiru has cast doubt on President William Ruto’s much-publicised ambition of transforming Kenya into a first-world economy similar to Singapore, arguing that the vision lacks a clear plan and genuine commitment.

In remarks shared on social media on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, Njiru criticised what he described as the casual use of the “Singapore Dream” in political speeches without concrete steps to support it.

He accused the President of turning the idea into a political slogan rather than a serious development roadmap.

According to Njiru, successful economic models such as Singapore’s were built on disciplined planning, strong institutions, and long-term policy consistency.

He questioned whether the Kenyan government is ready to make the difficult structural reforms required to achieve such a transformation.

“The idea of Singapore is being used more as a talking point than a policy objective,” Njiru suggested, warning that Kenyans should be cautious about promises that are not backed by measurable actions.

He argued that without clear timelines, accountability, and institutional reforms, the vision risks remaining theoretical.

Njiru’s comments come amid growing political debate over the government’s development priorities.

Critics have increasingly questioned whether the administration is focusing too much on grand international comparisons while unresolved domestic challenges continue to affect ordinary citizens.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua recently echoed similar concerns, urging President Ruto to first deliver on key promises under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.

Speaking during a public event in Kiambu County earlier this month, Gachagua argued that basic services such as healthcare, cost of living relief, and social protection should take precedence over ambitious global comparisons.

Gachagua pointed to changes in the health sector as an example, calling for stability and reforms that directly benefit citizens before introducing new systems.

He claimed that unmet promises have made Kenyans sceptical of new narratives about rapid economic transformation.

Political analysts say the growing criticism reflects wider public anxiety about the pace of reforms and rising economic pressure.

While the government maintains that its long-term strategy includes infrastructure expansion, industrial growth, and investment in technology, sceptics argue that progress on the ground remains uneven.

President Ruto has defended his vision, insisting that Kenya must think boldly to compete globally. In recent months, his administration has rolled out initiatives such as the National Infrastructure Fund, aimed at mobilising trillions of shillings to support development projects across the country.

However, Njiru insists that ambition alone is not enough. He argues that without strong governance, transparency, and policy discipline, Kenya risks repeating past cycles of unfulfilled promises.

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Steve Ogolla: Claiming Raila Didn’t Leave ODM in Government Is Dishonest

By Malticks - January 14, 2026

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Kioni Accuses Junet of Undermining Azimio During Majority Battle

By Malticks - January 08, 2026

Jubilee Party Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni has openly accused Suna East MP Junet Mohamed of betraying the Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya coalition during its tense fight for control of the National Assembly after the 2022 General Election.

Speaking during a media interview on Thursday, Kioni claimed that Junet failed to stand with the opposition coalition at crucial moments when unity was most needed.

According to him, Azimio leaders faced resistance both on the streets and inside Parliament as they pushed to be recognised as the majority side.

Kioni alleged that while Azimio organised protests and legal efforts to assert its numbers in the House, Junet remained distant.

He said the ODM legislator did not take part in demonstrations meant to pressure institutions to recognise Azimio as the rightful majority coalition.

“He was not present when the coalition needed him,” Kioni said, adding that Junet later worked closely with National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula to frustrate a court decision that had briefly favoured Azimio’s position.

The Jubilee official further claimed that Junet’s role as Minority Leader allowed him to influence key parliamentary processes in ways that disadvantaged Jubilee Party members.

According to Kioni, committee slots that were meant for Jubilee lawmakers were instead allocated to MPs from other parties, deepening mistrust within the coalition.

The disagreement traces back to the disputed majority question that emerged shortly after the 2022 elections.

Azimio maintained that pre-election coalition agreements, officially submitted to the Registrar of Political Parties, gave it the numbers to control the House.

However, Speaker Wetang’ula ruled in favour of Kenya Kwanza, arguing that post-election defections had shifted the balance.

Despite court challenges and political pressure, the Speaker stood by his position, leaving Junet as the official Minority Leader.

Kioni’s remarks highlight growing cracks within Azimio, especially between Jubilee and sections of ODM, the party long associated with the late Raila Odinga.

He suggested that internal divisions weakened the opposition’s ability to challenge the government effectively.

Beyond the blame game, Kioni expressed concern about the image of the opposition, saying it had lost its voice and direction. He questioned why a movement once seen as a national platform was now viewed through ethnic lenses.

Calling for unity, Kioni urged Azimio leaders to remain guided by Raila Odinga’s political values and legacy.

He added that the coalition would, in time, agree on its future leadership and presidential candidate as it prepares for the next political contest.

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Kalonzo Musyoka Takes on Ruto and Mudavadi Over Push for Referendum

By Malticks - December 30, 2025

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has strongly criticised President William Ruto and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi over renewed efforts to introduce a constitutional referendum ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Speaking on Tuesday, December 30, during a press briefing titled “Reflections of 2025 and the Urgency of 2026”, Kalonzo accused the Kenya Kwanza administration of using constitutional changes to advance political interests instead of strengthening democratic institutions.

Kalonzo said President Ruto should first focus on fully implementing the 2010 Constitution, despite having opposed it at the time it was adopted.

According to him, the President has no excuse for failing to respect a legal framework that now supports his leadership.

“Let me be very clear to Mr. Ruto: implement the Constitution of Kenya and obey the rule of law,” Kalonzo said.

“Even if you opposed it back then, today you are its guardian. You must protect it, not bend it.”

The Wiper leader added that the same Constitution Ruto once rejected is the one that shielded him during the strained final years of the Jubilee administration.

Kalonzo noted that former President Uhuru Kenyatta could not remove Ruto from office without going through a complex impeachment process which required numbers in Parliament—something Ruto’s allies had.

“This Constitution actually served Mr. Ruto very well,” he said.

“When Uhuru would have wanted to dismiss him, the law protected him.”

Kalonzo’s remarks were sparked by Musalia Mudavadi’s recent call for a constitutional referendum to be held alongside the 2027 elections.

Mudavadi said the vote would help Kenyans settle long-debated issues such as entrenching the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) in law and officially recognising the Leader of the Opposition.

He proposed that the referendum question should be added as the seventh ballot, arguing that voters would already be participating in a major national exercise.

But Kalonzo dismissed the plan, warning that combining the referendum with the elections could confuse voters and be used to sneak in controversial amendments.

“Imagine the burden already placed on voters,” Kalonzo said. “Six ballots—MCA, MP, Women Representative, Senator, Governor, and President—and now they want to add a seventh one. Where else in the world is this done?”

He insisted that there is no national crisis that justifies rushing into a referendum, saying that existing constitutional mechanisms have not been exhausted.

“The legal avenue is Parliament,” he said.

“The Constitution clearly states that Kenya must have 290 constituencies. No one can change that through shortcuts.”

Kalonzo criticised the government for what he described as a calculated attempt to manipulate the 2027 electoral environment.

He argued that the referendum push could be a smokescreen—one that distracts citizens while allowing the state to cement its influence over key institutions.

According to him, the Ruto administration is using the language of reform to make Kenyans accept changes that could weaken accountability systems.

He also criticised the President’s frequent references to transforming Kenya into “the next Singapore”, saying such comparisons do not match the country’s current political and economic realities.

Kalonzo urged Kenyans to stay alert as the country heads into a politically charged year. He said national debates should focus on improving governance, easing economic pressures, and safeguarding democratic freedoms—not opening the Constitution for unnecessary alterations.

He warned that the coming year will be critical, and any attempt to reshape the Constitution must be carefully examined to avoid jeopardising Kenya’s progress.

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Sifuna Apologises to Uhuru as ODM Rift Deepens

By Malticks - December 30, 2025

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has publicly apologised to former President Uhuru Kenyatta following recent criticism directed at him by some senior figures within the party.

Sifuna made the remarks during the burial of former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo, where Uhuru was among the attendees.

Speaking to mourners, Sifuna said it was regrettable that a section of ODM leaders had turned against a man who once stood firmly with Raila Odinga during the 2022 presidential campaign.

He reminded the gathering that Uhuru’s support for the opposition at the time was significant, and accused some party members of failing to acknowledge that contribution.

Sifuna, who spoke in both Kiswahili and English, said he was issuing the apology on behalf of the entire ODM party.

He criticised those attacking the retired president, saying they were “biting the hand that fed them.” He warned that political ingratitude can divide the party if not addressed.

His remarks widened an already heated debate within ODM. Earlier, Mumias East MP Peter Salasya had also defended Uhuru, urging the party to stop dragging the former president into internal disputes.

According to Salasya, ODM should focus on its role in the broad-based government instead of blaming Uhuru for every disagreement that emerges.

However, not everyone within the party agrees with Sifuna and Salasya. ODM chairperson Gladys Wanga and National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed have recently accused Uhuru of interfering with the party's internal affairs.

Wanga, while speaking in Homa Bay in the presence of President William Ruto, claimed that Uhuru was using political brokers within ODM to create tension and confusion.

Wanga warned that the party would resist any attempts to destabilise it, saying ODM respects Uhuru but will not allow external influence meant to weaken its structures.

The contrasting statements illustrate the widening cracks within ODM, with leaders divided over how to relate to the former Head of State.

While some view Uhuru as a key ally who supported the opposition at a crucial moment, others believe his involvement in current political issues is contributing to unnecessary friction.

The tensions come at a time when the party is still adjusting to its new arrangement with the ruling UDA Party under the broad-based government structure, a partnership that has triggered debates about loyalty, direction and leadership within ODM.

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UDA’s Hassan Omar Leads Grassroots Election Sensitisation in Nyandarua

By Malticks - December 20, 2025

The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has intensified its grassroots election sensitisation campaign in Nyandarua County ahead of its upcoming internal polls scheduled for January 10, 2026.

UDA Secretary General, Senator Hassan Omar, spearheaded the Nyandarua exercise, aimed at educating party members on the electoral process and encouraging active participation at the local level.

The sensitisation exercise took place at Miharati Catholic Church in Kipipiri Constituency, forming part of a wider nationwide programme conducted across 20 counties expected to participate in the internal elections.

In a statement shared on X on Friday, December 19, 2025, the party highlighted that the initiative seeks to enhance voter education, clarify electoral procedures, and strengthen grassroots structures ahead of the polls.

“UDA Secretary General Sen Hassan Omar attended the Nyandarua County pre-party grassroots election sensitisation exercise at Miharati Catholic Church, Kipipiri Constituency, ahead of the January 10 polls in 20 counties,” the statement read.

The exercise marks the conclusion of a three-week campaign across counties, with UDA leaders engaging members on electoral processes, the importance of participation, and the roles available at different levels of party leadership.

National Elections Board Member Halake Dida oversaw the event, ensuring that party members received comprehensive guidance on the upcoming elections.

Senator Hassan Omar urged party supporters to set aside tribal tendencies and embrace inclusivity, stressing that unity is vital for achieving collective progress as championed by President William Ruto.

“Our focus is to encourage fair participation, foster dialogue, and ensure that party members understand their roles in shaping the direction of UDA,” Omar noted during the event.

The Nyandarua meeting also brought together several national and county party officials, reflecting the strategic importance UDA places on grassroots mobilisation.

Leaders used the platform to interact with supporters, listen to concerns, and motivate them to seek leadership positions at polling stations, ensuring that the internal electoral process is both participatory and transparent.

UDA National Treasurer Japheth Nyakundi expressed gratitude to Nyandarua residents for their continued support, while Executive Director Nicodemas Bore praised County Woman Representative Hon. Faith Wairimu for her commitment to party activities and leadership at the county level.

The statements highlighted the central role of local leaders in mobilising supporters and promoting civic engagement.

During the sensitisation sessions, members also received guidance on electronic voting procedures, helping to demystify technological aspects of the election process.

Many attendees took the opportunity to ask questions, seeking clarity on eligibility criteria, leadership roles, and the responsibilities of elected representatives within the party’s structures.

The campaign coincided with national recognition of development achievements in Nyandarua, with leaders praising President Ruto’s government for transforming the region’s road network, a feat that had been largely absent in previous administrations.

The message reinforced the party’s commitment to local development while linking grassroots mobilisation with broader political objectives.

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