Kalonzo Says His Record Is Part of Kibaki’s Legacy

Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka has said his political record should be regarded as part of former President Mwai Kibaki’s legacy, citing his service as Vice President from 2008 to 2013.

Speaking during a televised interview, Kalonzo said the achievements of the Kibaki administration were the result of collective leadership and should not be credited to one individual. He argued that history should reflect the shared responsibility of those who served in senior government positions at the time.

He repeatedly used the term “we” when describing the administration’s accomplishments, pointing to the construction of the Thika Superhighway as a major example. Kalonzo said Kenyans should remember that the project was delivered while he was Vice President, emphasising his role within the government that oversaw its completion.

Kalonzo also referred to Kenya’s involvement in peace efforts in South Sudan, noting that the Comprehensive Peace Agreement was signed in Nairobi during Kibaki’s presidency. He described the agreement and the subsequent independence of South Sudan as outcomes of work carried out by the Kenyan government, in which he said he played a part.

Addressing his domestic political career, Kalonzo cited his long service as Member of Parliament for Kitui North from 1985 to 2013. He said his repeated re-election over nearly three decades reflected voter confidence in his leadership and development record in the constituency.

His remarks come amid criticism from President William Ruto, who has accused him of neglecting infrastructure development in his home region. In response, Kalonzo said a key road to his home area in Tseikuru was launched late in his vice-presidential term because national priorities took precedence over personal or local interests. He accused President Ruto of favouring his own political base in the allocation of development resources.

Kalonzo also defended his personal record, saying he has maintained a reputation for integrity throughout his political career. He contrasted this with other leaders whom he said have faced corruption allegations, stating that he has not been linked to graft.

During the interview, Kalonzo criticised President Ruto’s economic agenda, particularly the goal of transforming Kenya into a First World economy along the lines of Singapore. He said such ambitions were unrealistic given the country’s unemployment levels.