Kalonzo Musyoka chose a different path this Mashujaa Day, attending a commemorative event at Ufungamano House in Nairobi rather than the national celebrations in his home county of Kitui.
The Wiper Party leader joined the Kenyan Human Rights Defenders Coalition for a reflective occasion that highlighted the June 25 protests, including a powerful installation titled ‘Parliament’s Impeachment By The People,’ which documented the events that shook Kenya’s political landscape.
During the gathering, Kalonzo met mothers who lost children to police violence during the demonstrations. Despite their grief, the parents have formed a supportive network, drawing strength from each other.
Kalonzo described the experience as deeply uplifting, calling it a ‘Shujaa Circle’ and emphasising that heroes exist not only in politics but also among ordinary citizens who sacrifice for justice.
His choice to skip the national Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kitui, however, did not go unnoticed. The event at Ithookwe Stadium, presided over by President William Ruto, drew thousands of residents and dignitaries.
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei led the criticism, calling Kalonzo’s absence “unpatriotic” and questioning his commitment to the national celebration.
Cherargei also suggested that Kalonzo had been abroad in the United Kingdom and only returned for the funeral of Raila Odinga, confusing a national holiday with a political rally.
