Kalonzo: I won’t allow those who stole Raila’s votes to dance on his grave

Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka has criticized the Kenya Kwanza administration over the abduction of human rights defenders Collins Otiendo and Mulinge, while cautioning against attempts to take advantage of the legacy of the late Raila Odinga. Speaking in Bondo, Siaya County, on Sunday, Kalonzo vowed not to let individuals he accused of stealing Raila’s votes return to Bondo to celebrate his political legacy.

"They will not be able to dance on his grave and build a grand mausoleum dedicated to his values," Kalonzo declared. He recounted his side-by-side journey with Raila through multiple electoral defeats, noting their frequent trips to South Africa for reflection and prayer following contentious elections. Kalonzo highlighted their challenging political experiences together, including their visits to South Africa to pray for Kenya post-disputed elections.

Turning to the recent arrests, Kalonzo addressed the case of Collins Otiendo, describing him as Raila’s grandson, and alleged he was detained after seeking assistance from a police station to locate fellow human rights defender Mulinge. Otiendo was reportedly placed in a police vehicle and driven around Nairobi before being released near Thika.

Kalonzo connected these arrests to the broader treatment of young activists involved in the Gen Z protests. He deplored the government's tax hikes and alleged that corruption had permeated the nation. Kalonzo also paid tribute to Raila's pivotal role in Kenya's constitutional reform efforts, emphasizing his fight for the Constitution that was finally enacted under former President Mwai Kibaki.

These statements came as political figures and supporters prepared to mark the first anniversary of Raila’s passing, with commemorative events planned in Bondo to honor his enduring legacy.