Raila needs Kalonzo to win 2022 elections-Oparanya

Raila needs Kalonzo to win 2022 presidential elections, but we have other options if Kalonzo doesn’t accept the offer to deputize Raila for the third time. This is what ODM deputy party leader and Kakamega governor Wycliffe Oparanya told K24 television on October 10.

“Obviously, if Kalonzo supports Raila or OKA joins ODM, it will be very easy for Raila to win the elections but if Kalonzo is running, then he will take away some votes from Raila”, said the governor admitting Kalonzo’s political weight if Raila was to realize his presidential dreams.

Mr Oparanya revealed that his party was working on a scenario that Kalonzo may be too hard to woo in their coalition strategies.  “As a party, we are strategizing and we feel that Central Kenya will be the best balancing of votes should Kalonzo leave with his votes”, said the former Council of Governors chairman.

The Kakamega county chief said Kalonzo’s support to Raila was crucial but they have other plans if Kalonzo won’t accept the offer to be Raila’s deputy again. He unsuccessfully deputized Raila in 2013 and 2017 presidential elections when both lost to UhuRuto.

“Much as we need his support, we cannot stand and wait for him. If he doesn’t show up, then as a party we have other options”, said the second-term governor.

Observers say that Kalonzo has two million votes "which he controls" and is a most sought-after partner in 2022 elections.

STORY By MUSYOKA NGUI, EDITED BY BONIFACE MWANIKI