Kalonzo warns of shrinking democratic space ahead of 2027 elections

Story by Violet Kerubo

Wiper Patriotic Front and Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party Leader Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka has raised concerns over Kenya’s democratic space, investor confidence and the preparedness of electoral institutions ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Kalonzo spoke during the farewell ceremony for the late Justice Joseph Mbalu Mutava, husband to Kibwezi East MP Jessica Mbalu, where he was accompanied by DAP-K Party Leader Eugene Wamalwa, Democratic Party Leader JB Muturi, Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jnr and other leaders.

The former Vice President said the country must protect democratic institutions and ensure that the 2027 electoral process is transparent, inclusive and credible.

He questioned the conduct of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), particularly over the involvement of political players and other stakeholders in preparations for the next General Election.

Kalonzo said the Commission must live up to its constitutional mandate of independence, questioning the decision to convene an elections-related meeting without what he described as adequate participation of key stakeholders, including political parties and the opposition.

He argued that Kenyans, as the ultimate participants in the electoral process, must have confidence that the institution overseeing the election is independent and impartial.

The opposition leader also renewed his criticism of the government over the reported abduction of Standard Associate Editor Alex Kiprotich.

Kalonzo invoked Articles 34 and 35 of the Constitution, which protect freedom of the media and the right of access to information, saying the government should take concrete action instead of creating more committees.

He alleged that police officers were involved in the incident and demanded accountability for what he described as an assault on press freedom.

According to Kalonzo, protecting journalists is essential to safeguarding democracy, particularly as the country moves towards the 2027 elections.

Kalonzo also condemned the disruption of Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku’s activities, which he described as the work of organised goons.

He challenged Ole Lenku to reconsider his association with the broad-based government arrangement and instead align himself with the opposition.

Kalonzo argued that Ole Lenku, as Leader of the Minority, has a responsibility to defend democratic space and stand with Kenyans.

On the economy, Kalonzo warned that political statements targeting investors could damage Kenya’s reputation as an investment destination.

He cited the controversy surrounding Tata Chemicals Magadi, arguing that disputes involving investors should be handled through established legal and institutional processes rather than roadside declarations.

At the same time, he said companies operating in Kenya must honour their obligations to local governments and communities.

He called on Tata Chemicals to settle money owed to the Kajiado County Government and consider ceding part of its land to the local community.

However, Kalonzo cautioned that even where an investor has obligations to the government or local communities, the state cannot simply order a company out of the country without following due process.

His remarks place institutional independence, press freedom, investor confidence and electoral credibility at the centre of the opposition’s concerns as Kenya heads towards the 2027 political contest.