Kioni's remarks have added a new twist to the growing disagreements among opposition figures seeking to unite ahead of the 2027 General Election.
In a statement shared on November 3, Kioni declared that every Kenyan has an equal right to participate in politics without being intimidated or treated as less important.
He stated, “Let it be known: no one owns the opposition, no one owns a region, and no Kenyan is more Kenyan than another.”
He further maintained that political leaders should allow others to choose their parties, express their opinions and campaign according to their preferred styles.
His remarks appeared to target Gachagua, who has recently challenged fellow opposition leaders to become more active in mobilising voters instead of relying on political meetings and media appearances.
The former Deputy President has insisted that anyone seeking the presidency must demonstrate their ability to attract support from across the country.
His position has, however, attracted criticism from leaders who feel that opposition politics should be guided by mutual respect rather than instructions from individual politicians.
Kioni also questioned the kind of leadership that demands respect without showing the same consideration to others.
He argued that leadership should involve listening, persuasion and building trust instead of declaring oneself the gatekeeper of a community.
He further reminded his political colleagues that Kenya belongs to everyone and should not become a platform for personal ambitions.
The exchange comes at a sensitive moment as opposition leaders attempt to agree on a common strategy and presidential candidate to challenge President William Ruto in 2027.
With different parties and influential figures seeking a place in the emerging political arrangement, Kioni's message raises an important question about who gets to shape the opposition's direction and whether its leaders can put their differences aside.
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