How Kalonzo signed his own political death warrant

Yesterday marked a turning point in the political sphere in Kenya. This was the first time a politician had decided to swear himself into office despite the numerous pleas from the international community.

It was going to be a day full of political rhetoric as had never been experienced before. However, the whole event came crumbling leaving Mr. Odinga with a few of his lieutenants minus his trusted principals who were a no-show at the much-hyped event.

Had the other principals chickened out of the event? This is the only way a layman could look into the scenario. The three Principals were a let down to the opposition. They did not live to their expectations.

It is, however, important to note that the biggest loser was Mr. Kalonzo Musyoka. This is because out of the three principals he was the one who apart from Raila had the greatest influence. He was the only one the leading coalition had been trying to woo to the government side.

He had previously been accused of being a 'watermelon' meaning that he was not a trustworthy ally. This emanated from the events that preceded the 2007 polls and the referendum fight where he never took a definite stand.

NASA diehards were trolling him after his absence at the podium for the oathing ceremony. He came out to defend himself that his absence and that of his fellow principals was occasioned by the withdrawal of their security and subsequent detention by the government something which has not gone down well with the supporters.

These events have placed him in an awkward position with the electorate. He might have been able to inherit Mr. Odinga's constituency if he remained steadfast by his side. Now Mr. Odinga and his supporters might feel betrayed and won't live up to the possibility of supporting Kalonzo.

Due to his stature as a former vice president and two-time running mate, he might find it very hard to get a soft landing. He might be forced to quietly exit the political scene with his reputation intact but with no political clout. All these, however, will be determined in due course.