Kalonzo unveils 13-point ‘People’s Budget’ to challenge Ruto in 2027

Kalonzo Musyoka, leader of the Wiper Patriotic Front, has introduced a 13-point "People's Budget" as an alternative policy platform to President William Ruto's administration in preparation for the 2027 General Election. The announcement was made on X on Monday, August 10, 2026, as Kenya approached the final year leading up to the upcoming election.

The proposals aim to tackle the issues faced by everyday Kenyans and offer a distinct approach to governance, with the "Thirteen-Point Agenda, the People's Budget" being described as a covenant, not a slogan.

Healthcare and education are at the forefront of the proposed agenda, with Kalonzo committing to a complete overhaul of essential services. He advocates for universal healthcare, expressing discontent with the existing Social Health Authority (SHA) and Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) and insisting that every Kenyan should be guaranteed dignity in illness.

In education, Kalonzo pledges free and high-quality education from Early Childhood Development (ECD) through university, along with bursaries and scholarships for deserving students.

Employment creation, manufacturing, and agriculture are to be key areas in his economic plan. Kalonzo promises a living wage and dignified employment to revive manufacturing, support agro-processing, and generate jobs for the youth. Food security is addressed through subsidized agriculture and measures to protect farmers and consumers from market manipulation.

Tax reforms aim to alleviate the financial strain on low-income households while increasing contributions from wealthier Kenyans. The budget also advocates for stronger devolution, empowerment of youth and women, infrastructure development, and housing initiatives.

Other components of the agenda include social protection for vulnerable groups, environmental and climate justice, and economic opportunities for young people and women. Kalonzo also pledges a more aggressive stance against corruption if his political movement gains power, stating that there should be zero tolerance for corrupt practices and no political protection for wrongdoers.

The final pillar of the agenda centers on national unity and reconciliation, with Kalonzo proposing measures to heal historical divisions and foster a united nation under justice.

Kalonzo frames the proposals as a program for an alternative government, emphasizing that Kenya requires policies prioritizing ordinary citizens instead of political rebranding. He asserts that the budget is articulated in the language of those who have borne the brunt of the regime's failures, rather than those who implemented them.

The unveiling of the People's Budget occurs as opposition leaders ramp up their efforts to mobilize ahead of the 2027 polls, positioning the proposal as part of their broader strategy to challenge Ruto's administration at the ballot.