Octopizzo dismisses new opposition as recycled leaders with no track record
Legendary Kenyan artiste Henry Ohanga alias Octopizzo has urged Kenyans to reject familiar political faces making a comeback in the opposition, saying they are recycled leaders with no tangible track record.
In a statement shared on his X account on Saturday, May 17, 2025, Octopizzo warned Kenyans against falling into what he called political amnesia. He cautioned that many of those positioning themselves as part of a new opposition alliance are, in fact, long-time politicians with little to show for their time in leadership.
He added that Kenya deserves leaders who remember the needs of ordinary citizens every day, not just during election periods.
“Kenyans must reject political amnesia. The so-called new opposition is merely a recycled cast of rejected leaders, or people who’ve been there for more than 20 years with nothing tangible to show, desperate for power, not reforms,” Ocopizzo stated.
Adding;
“Let us stay vigilant and committed to progress, not personalities. As a country, we deserve leadership that remembers the people not just during elections, but every single day.”
Political rebrands
Octopizzo’s remarks come at a time when the country’s political landscape is shifting, as seasoned politicians realign themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections. A new opposition alliance is slowly taking shape, featuring rebranded political parties and familiar political heavyweights.
On May 15, 2025, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua officially launched a new political outfit, the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), during a colourful event in Lavington, Nairobi.
The party’s slogan, “Skiza Wakenya” (Listen to Kenyans), signals a focus on inclusivity and grassroots representation, according to the former DP. Its emblem, a hand cupping an ear, emphasises this theme, and the official party colours are green, red, white, and black.
Gachagua said the DCP was formed in direct response to Kenyans’ calls for better leadership. He announced that the party will field candidates in all elective positions, including the presidency, in the 2027 elections. He promised that the party would prioritise the voice of ordinary citizens in all decision-making.
The DCP leadership features several notable figures: Cleophas Malala is serving as the interim Deputy Party Leader, David Mingati as Chairperson, and Mithika Linturi as the National Organising Secretary. Other leaders include Cate Waruguru as the National Women’s Leader and Peter Mwathi as the Deputy Party Chair of Strategy.
Meanwhile, Martha Karua, the former Justice Minister and 2022 deputy presidential candidate, rebranded her Narc Kenya party into the People’s Liberation Party (PLP). She took on a key role in coordinating the new opposition alliance and is currently organising meetings with other political leaders. Karua has also announced her intention to run for president in 2027, advocating for a woman-led government that she believes can unite and transform the nation.
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka also reaffirmed his plan to contest the presidency in the next election. He is actively engaging with fellow opposition leaders to build a united front against President William Ruto.
Adding to the growing list of presidential hopefuls is former Chief Justice David Maraga, who has in the recent past launched a series of town hall meetings across the country. His first stop was in his hometown of Kebirigo, Nyamira County, where he met with local leaders and residents to listen to their concerns and outline his vision.
Maraga has positioned himself as a leader who will restore integrity and good governance.
“I want to change this country, ensure people follow the law, fight corruption, and address healthcare issues,” he told supporters.
