Ngilu: I've shifted to Kalonzo camp after Raila joined Ruto

Former Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu has ditched ODM leader Raila Odinga for Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka.

Ngilu said her decision follows Raila's move to work with President William Ruto.

She said she was disappointed because in 2022, Ruto accused former President Uhuru Kenyatta of destroying Kenya by working with Raila.

“Would we be wrong if we said Ruto has also destroyed our country by collaborating with Raila? Would it be farfetched for us to make such an accusation?” Ngilu asked.

She said it is time Kalonzo was made the leader of Azimio.

The former Kitui governor spoke on Saturday during the burial of Mwanzia Masila at Ngiluni village in Kitui Rural subcounty.

Area MP Boni Mwalika also attended the burial.

Ngilu expressed optimism that Kalonzo win the presidency in 2027.

“We shall make it. Let leaders don their shoes and fight on behalf of the people. Let us not assume that we will get the top seat on a silver platter. No one will give it out, it has to be fought for,” she said.

She urged Kalonzo to arm himself and keep fighting for what is right.

“Kambas should be ready with their IDs and register as voters. This will ensure we give Kalonzo two to three million votes. We can then seek support of other ethnic groups,” Ngilu said.

She asked Kalonzo supporters to be prepared for the hard task ahead since winning the presidency is not a walk in the park.

“It should not bother you if you slept in very dehumanising places as you seek votes across the country because you will ultimately reap from your sacrifice and enjoy good sleep once you deliver the top seat,” Ngilu said.

Ngilu has been a political associate of Raila since 1992, when they jointly launched an onslaught against former President Daniel Moi's Kanu regime.

"I stuck with him all along and we formed a bond as we fought against atrocities meted on Kenyans," she said.