Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka Speaking on Saturday night during the Law Society of Kenya’s Lower Eastern Advocates Forum dinner held at Sisu Hotel in Machakos County,
By Andrew Mbuva
Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka has urged members of the legal fraternity to take a firmer stand in defending Kenya’s democracy, constitutional order, and the integrity of public office.
Speaking on Saturday night during the Law Society of Kenya’s Lower Eastern Advocates Forum dinner held at Sisu Hotel in Machakos County, Kalonzo delivered a powerful call to action, challenging advocates to deepen their service to the nation through pro bono work and unwavering commitment to justice.
Addressing senior lawyers and the Junior Bar, Kalonzo praised the legal profession for remaining “the vigilant guardians of our constitutional order” at a time when, he noted, corruption, impunity, and democratic backsliding threaten the core values of the Republic.
He commended advocates for consistently reminding those in power that public office is a sacred trust, not a stepping stone for personal gain.
In a strongly worded statement, Kalonzo hailed the High Court’s landmark ruling on political defections, describing it as “a defining moment for our democracy.” The case involved Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo and his Deputy James Lowasa, who were elected on a Jubilee ticket before defecting to UDA soon after assuming office.
Kalonzo praised the petition filed by Ali Guracha and litigated by lawyer Kibe Mungai, saying it reaffirmed the inviolability of the people’s mandate.
“The High Court was unequivocal,” he said. “Using political parties as mere ladders to power only to abandon them moments after being sworn in is selfish, unconstitutional, and a betrayal of the electorate. This ruling restores confidence in multiparty democracy and sends a clear message that integrity must guide political conduct.”
However, the Wiper leader did not shy away from critiquing recent electoral events. He expressed deep concern over the violence witnessed during the November 27 by-elections, where at least 15 people lost their lives in Kasipul.
Kalonzo accused the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) of failing in its cardinal duty to protect the integrity of the vote, warning that such lapses pose a serious threat to future elections.
He called on the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Inspector General of Police to immediately take action against individuals responsible for orchestrating electoral violence. “If justice is delayed, the citizens retain the constitutional right to pursue private prosecutions,” he said, insisting that impunity must never be allowed to flourish.
Turning to the heart of his message, Kalonzo urged advocates to expand their commitment to pro bono work, arguing that many Kenyans “do not lack rights; they lack access.” He described legal aid as an act of humanity, patriotism, and nation-building, stressing that the future of Kenya’s democratic and ethical direction rests significantly in the hands of the legal profession.
“Stay courageous, stay principled, and remember that your word—whether in the courts or online—will be remembered,” he cautioned, reminding advocates that “the internet never forgets.”
Kalonzo concluded by commending the role of the Junior Bar, whose energy, professionalism, and engagement in national discourse, particularly alongside Gen Z activists, he said, continues to inspire public confidence in the rule of law.
“Your efforts are shaping not just our legal landscape, but the moral architecture of our Republic,” he said. “May the rule of law forever prevail in the Republic of Kenya.”
The dinner brought together leading advocates from Machakos, Makueni, and Kitui counties, including Governors Wavinya Ndeti and Mutula Kilonzo Jr., for an evening dedicated to reflecting on the state of justice and democratic governance in the country.