Mumias East MP Peter Salasya has urged opposition leaders to stop judging political influence by the size of individual rallies, warning that such comparisons could fracture the emerging anti-Ruto alliance and weaken its chances in the 2027 General Election.
In a statement on Monday, July 27, 2026, Salasya argued that political capital is built over decades through consistent engagement with voters, not by turnout at a single political event.
He defended several opposition figures whose influence has recently come under scrutiny, saying each commands deep-rooted support in their respective regions.
“Kalonzo Musyoka has remained the dominant political force in Ukambani and the Upper Eastern region for more than two decades. Time and again, leaders who have challenged his influence in the region have faced significant political backlash,” Salasya said.
Also Read: Methu mocks President Ruto’s ‘campaign not started’ remarks
He added that former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i continues to enjoy considerable support in the Kisii region, while Democratic Action Party-Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa remains an influential political figure in Trans Nzoia and parts of Bungoma County.
Political weight Vs Single rally
Salasya cautioned against comparing the political weight of such leaders with the attendance at a single rally addressed by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, saying the narrative risks overlooking years of political investment and grassroots support.
According to the legislator, such public comparisons could sow unnecessary divisions within the opposition, create political opportunities for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), and ultimately benefit President William Ruto as he prepares to seek a second term in office.
“If the opposition is serious about presenting a credible alternative, it should prioritise unity, respect each leader’s regional strength, and avoid public comparisons that weaken the coalition,” he said.
He maintained that strong political coalitions are built by recognising the strengths each partner brings rather than diminishing their influence.
Opposition leaders regional rallies
Salasya’s remarks come at a time when opposition leaders are intensifying efforts to forge a united front ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has been holding consultations with key opposition figures, including Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, PLP leader Martha Karua and former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi, among others, in a bid to form a broad coalition against President Ruto.
Also Read: Gachagua ramps up 2027 rhetoric, accuses govt of broken promises
The comments also follow renewed debate over the opposition’s regional political strength after Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna stormed the Western counties that sparked comparisons over crowd sizes and individual popularity.
Kalonzo has remained the dominant political figure in Ukambani since the early 2000s, consistently delivering the region’s vote in successive presidential elections.
Matiang’i, who has been fronted by sections of the opposition as a possible presidential candidate, continues to enjoy significant backing in the Gusii region, while Wamalwa remains one of the leading political figures in Western Kenya, particularly in Trans Nzoia and parts of Bungoma.
With less than a year before the official campaign period begins, the opposition continues to grapple with balancing regional interests, selecting a flagbearer and maintaining unity as it seeks to mount a formidable challenge against Ruto’s re-election bid.
