"We Were Beaten Together" – Oburu Recalls Kalonzo and Raila's Painful Political Struggles

Veteran politician Oburu Odinga has opened up about the difficult days of Kenya's opposition politics recalling how Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka stood firmly alongside former Prime Minister Raila Odinga during some of the country's most turbulent political moments.

Speaking during a recent political engagement Oburu narrated how Kalonzo remained a loyal ally to Raila despite the challenges and dangers that came with opposition politics.

According to Oburu, the two leaders endured police brutality, harassment and repeated confrontations with security agencies while fighting for democratic reforms and political change.

Kalonzo Musyoka was everywhere with Raila. 

We used to be beaten together by police and even teargassed during meetings, Oburu said.

The remarks come at a time when Kenya's political landscape continues to shift ahead of the 2027 General Election with opposition leaders reassessing alliances and political strategies.

Oburu's statement highlighted the sacrifices made by opposition figures over the years especially during periods when political rallies and demonstrations were frequently disrupted by authorities.

The East African Legislative Assembly member noted that many leaders who are now at the centre of national politics shared painful experiences while championing what they believed were democratic ideals.

For decades, Kalonzo and Raila have maintained a complicated yet enduring political relationship.

While the two leaders have occasionally taken different political paths, they have repeatedly reunited in major political formations including the National Super Alliance and the Azimio la Umoja coalition.

Political analysts view Oburu's remarks as an attempt to remind Kenyans of the historical bond between the two leaders especially at a time when discussions about future political alliances are intensifying.

Kalonzo has in recent months positioned himself as a key figure within the opposition, frequently calling for governance reforms, accountability and respect for constitutional principles.

Raila, on the other hand remains one of the country's most influential political figures despite his recent engagements on continental assignments.

Oburu's recollection serves as a reminder of the often harsh realities faced by opposition leaders in Kenya's political history.

It also underscores the deep personal and political ties forged through years of shared struggles, arrests, police crackdowns and teargas-filled rallies.

As the country slowly shifts focus towards the next electoral cycle, such memories could play a significant role in shaping future political alignments and rekindling old alliances.