Wiper Patriotic Front and Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party Leader Dr Stephen Kalonzo Speaking during the funeral service for the late Justice Joseph Mbalu Mutava, husband of Kibwezi East MP Jessica Mbalu. Photo Courtesy. 
By Andrew Mbuva.
Wiper Patriotic Front and Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party Leader Dr Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka has raised concerns over Kenya’s political environment ahead of the 2027 General Election, warning that threats to press freedom, investor confidence and electoral independence could undermine the country’s democratic institutions.
Kalonzo spoke during the funeral service for the late Justice Joseph Mbalu Mutava, husband of Kibwezi East MP Jessica Mbalu, where he joined family members, friends, leaders and wananchi to celebrate the life of the former judge.
He was accompanied by DAP-K Party Leader Eugene Wamalwa, DP Leader JB Muturi, Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr and other political leaders.
The former Vice President questioned the government’s approach to attracting and retaining investors, cautioning that public declarations targeting companies could damage Kenya’s reputation as a favourable investment destination.
Kalonzo cited the controversy surrounding Tata Chemicals Magadi, arguing that while investors must comply with their obligations, disputes should be handled through established legal and institutional processes.
He said Tata Chemicals should honour its financial obligations to the Kajiado County Government and consider giving up some land for the benefit of the local community.
However, he criticised what he termed “roadside declarations” ordering companies out of the country, saying investors cannot simply be expelled without following due process.
“You cannot simply order a company out without due process,” Kalonzo said, warning that such pronouncements could erode investor confidence.
The Wiper leader also turned his attention to the reported abduction of Standard Group Associate Editor Alex Kiprotich, invoking Articles 34 and 35 of the Constitution, which protect media freedom and the public’s right to access information.
Kalonzo criticised the government’s response to the incident, saying Kenyans require decisive action rather than the creation of more committees. He further alleged that police officers were behind the journalist’s abduction, calling for accountability and a thorough investigation.
The opposition leader also condemned the disruption of Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku’s activities, which he described as the work of organised goons.
He urged Ole Lenku to reconsider his association with the broad-based government arrangement and join the opposition, arguing that his position as Leader of the Minority comes with a responsibility to defend democratic space and stand with the people.
Kalonzo's strongest warning, however, centred on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and preparations for the 2027 elections.
He questioned the decision by the electoral body to convene an elections-related meeting without the participation of key stakeholders, including political parties, the opposition and the electorate.
He reminded the Commission that the “I” in IEBC stands for Independent, stressing that electoral preparations must be inclusive, transparent and free from political interference.
The remarks come as political activity begins to intensify ahead of the 2027 General Election, with opposition leaders increasingly scrutinising the preparedness and independence of institutions expected to oversee the polls.
Kalonzo called for all stakeholders to be given a meaningful role in the electoral process, arguing that Kenyans themselves are the ultimate participants and beneficiaries of a credible democratic election.
His address at Justice Mutava’s funeral therefore combined a tribute to a life well lived with a broader political warning: that protecting democratic institutions, media freedom, investor confidence and electoral independence will be critical to Kenya’s stability as the country moves towards 2027.
