Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has rejected an invitation to attend this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kitui, saying he cannot share a stage with President William Ruto.
Speaking on Sunday at a church fundraiser in Kyuso, Mwingi North, Kalonzo told congregants he would not attend the October 20 national event, set to be held at the Ithookwe Showground in Kitui Central.
“I will not attend the Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kitui, but the President and everybody else is free to attend the national event because we have the freedom of movement,” Kalonzo said.
The former vice president explained that his decision was not personal but political. He accused President Ruto of leading a government that does not tolerate opposing views.
“This administration is allergic to criticism,” Kalonzo said. “You cannot call yourself a democratic leader if you cannot accommodate dissent.”
The Kitui event is expected to draw top government officials and thousands of residents in celebration of Kenya’s heroes. But Kalonzo’s public refusal signals deepening tension between the opposition and the ruling coalition, just two years ahead of the 2027 general election.
In his remarks, Kalonzo also took aim at the government’s priorities. He criticised President Ruto’s recent decision to allocate Ksh1.2 billion for the construction of a modern church within the State House grounds, calling it “misplaced” at a time when many Kenyans are struggling with the cost of living.
“If you want to build a church using taxpayers’ money, there must be public participation. That is what the constitution demands,” he said. “And I’m certain most Kenyans would reject spending that kind of money on a State House church.”
Kalonzo’s remarks come amid wider public debate over government spending, transparency, and how national days are used for political messaging. His statements may further polarise the political space, but they also reflect the growing concern among parts of the opposition about governance and public accountability.
Mashujaa Day, one of Kenya’s most significant public holidays, is held annually on October 20 to honour the country’s heroes, both past and present. Hosting the national celebration outside Nairobi is part of a wider government effort to rotate major events around the counties. This year, Kitui was selected as the host.
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