Johnson Muthama explains meeting with Kalonzo amid political speculation

Former Machakos Senator Johnson Muthama has clarified his recent meeting with Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka after their private engagement sparked speculation about possible political realignments ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Muthama, who is a commissioner at the Parliamentary Service Commission and a founding chairman of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), said the meeting held on Thursday evening, October 1, was a consultation between longtime political associates.

In a statement issued on Friday, October 2, Muthama described Kalonzo as his “brother and longtime political friend” and said their discussion focused on national issues affecting Kenyans.

“After a lot of exaggerated stories, I would like to clarify that yesterday evening, I had a consultation with my brother and longtime political friend Wiper Democratic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka on a range of national issues, including matters that touch on the lives and well-being of our people,” Muthama said.

He said the meeting provided an opportunity for the two to exchange views and reflect on the country’s political and national situation.

“Our conversation provided an opportunity to exchange views, reflect on the current national situation, and consider the way forward on issues of importance to our nation and our people,” he added.

Meeting sparks political questions

The meeting attracted attention because Muthama has in recent years been associated with President William Ruto’s political camp, while Kalonzo remains a prominent opposition figure.

Muthama previously served as the first senator for Machakos County before taking up his current role at the Parliamentary Service Commission. He was also a founding chairman of UDA, the party through which Ruto contested the 2022 presidential election.

Their latest engagement therefore prompted speculation about whether the former political allies could be exploring areas of cooperation ahead of the 2027 polls.

However, Muthama did not announce any new political alliance or agreement following the meeting. His statement characterised the engagement as consultation on national issues rather than a formal political negotiation.

Kalonzo’s recent statements add to speculation

The meeting also comes amid renewed attention on Kalonzo’s recent comments about his relationship with President Ruto.

The Wiper leader has recently used a more conciliatory tone when discussing the President, including referring to Ruto as “my brother”. He was also recently quoted saying he would be willing to engage with Ruto after the 2027 General Election regardless of the outcome.

Kalonzo later clarified his position, maintaining that his political focus remained on challenging Ruto.

The differing statements have contributed to public discussion about the direction of opposition politics ahead of the 2027 elections, although they do not by themselves establish that Kalonzo is considering joining the government side.

Muthama keeps his political plans unclear

Muthama has not publicly declared his plans for the 2027 General Election or indicated whether he intends to remain firmly aligned with UDA.

His meeting with Kalonzo therefore adds another layer to an increasingly active political landscape, particularly in Ukambani, where both men have longstanding political networks.