Kalonzo’s Wiper party files for rebranding, prepares for 2027 race

Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka has formally written to the Registrar of Political Parties, Ann Nderitu, seeking to change the name and symbols of his Wiper party in preparation for the 2027 election.

The move follows approval from the party’s National Executive Committee meeting held last week, marking a strategic rebranding effort to reflect new realities within the party.

The letter to the registrar communicates the party’s intention not only to change its name but also to amend its constitution.

The Wiper party has submitted three possible new names and is now awaiting feedback from the registrar before making any public announcement.

Senator Shakila Abdalla, the party’s secretary general, confirmed the submission and said Kenyans should expect a fresh political outfit that better represents the country’s diverse population.

She added that the party will keep the Wiper name on the list and retain its identity colour of blue.

 "We have to change the name first before we announce. If you announce too early, somebody can play games on us. He explained that having three name proposals helps in case some are rejected,"  Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo told the Star.

Legal Affairs Secretary Eunice Lumalas said the party will also review its constitution during the rebranding process. The registrar’s office is expected to review the changes under the Political Parties Act.

If approved, insiders say the new identity could be unveiled within a month.

This rebranding signals Kalonzo’s renewed push to position himself as a serious presidential contender.

It comes amid growing pressure for opposition leaders to unite against the Kenya Kwanza government led by President William Ruto.

Recently, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua launched his Democracy for Citizens Party, while Martha Karua’s Narc-Kenya party was rebranded to the People’s Liberation Party.

Kalonzo’s camp insists that although they support consensus among opposition leaders to pick a single candidate, Kalonzo will not accept a secondary role.

 "This time round Kalonzo will be on the ballot. Everyone knows he is the most sober and experienced leader in this country and he will not play second fiddle," Maanzo said.

Former Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, known for his firm stance on security and governance, is also expected to vie for the joint opposition ticket.

Matiang’i, who served under former President Uhuru Kenyatta, is seen as a strong contender to challenge Kalonzo.

Kalonzo previously shelved his presidential ambitions in the 2013 and 2017 elections to support Raila Odinga as his running mate.