Emotional: Kalonzo Opens Up On Wife’s Health Struggles and Why He Has Contemplated Quitting Politics To Take Care Of Her

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has laid bare his heart in a rare and emotional interview, revealing the depth of his 13-year courtship with his wife, Pauline, her ongoing health challenges, and how her condition has led him to contemplate abandoning his political career to care for her.

Speaking on Thursday, April 3, 2025, with a local TV station, the former vice president offered a glimpse into his personal life and the motivations that continue to drive his political journey.

A Love Story Spanning Decades

Kalonzo’s romance with Pauline is a tale of patience and devotion.

The 71-year-old politician traced their love story back to their teenage years, when they first met at a Christian conference organized by the Kenya Students Christian Fellowship at Alliance Girls High School.

“I was in Form Five in Meru, and she was in Form Two at Molangwe, a missionary school in Kitui,” he recalled. “There, people were speaking in tongues, and we were just sitting there because we are AIC (African Inland Church), wondering what was wrong with us, and we started a conversation.”

That chance encounter sparked a connection that endured through years of separation and growth.

The couple seen together in a past event.

While Kalonzo pursued his studies at university, Pauline, then working at the Ministry of Labour at the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), would visit him between 1974 and 1975.

Later, she studied in India while he went to Cyprus for further education.

Their bond deepened over a 13-year courtship, culminating in marriage in December 1985, shortly after Kalonzo was elected as a Member of Parliament for Kitui North in April of that year.

“She would come and vote in my constituency,” he said proudly, calling her his “best friend” and a pillar of his life.

Pauline’s Health Struggles and Spiritual Support

Kalonzo did not shy away from discussing the toll of Pauline’s health challenges, a private matter that has seen her in and out of hospitals in Kenya and abroad since 2015.

“I know if I were in a similar situation, Pauline would have taken better care of me,” he admitted with a mix of gratitude and vulnerability.

“I cannot do enough for Pauline to give her comfort and to wish her recovery.”

The Musyoka family has leaned on faith and community during this difficult time.

Kalonzo recounted moments of spiritual encouragement, including a visit from a bishop from Canterbury who prayed for Pauline and a performance by international gospel singer Israel Mbonyi, who played the guitar for her.

“I hold the view that one day she will stand and walk,” he said with quiet hope.

Contemplating a Political Exit

A prayerful Kalonzo on his knees in a Church.

Pauline’s condition has weighed heavily on Kalonzo, prompting him to consider stepping away from the political arena he has inhabited for decades.

“With a wife who has been unwell, it has occurred to me several times. I could just quit politics and look after my wife,” he confessed.

Yet, he remains steadfast, driven by Pauline’s own resolve. “I know Pauline would not agree. She is a vision carrier; she knows where we have come from and what I am supposed to achieve, so I keep going; therefore, quitting is not an option.”

Kalonzo’s passion for public service also fuels his perseverance. “For me, it is a calling to help and serve people,” he said.

“It gives me a lot of pleasure when I help a Kenyan each day out of some misery.”

Through his foundation, he supports struggling families—many unaware of his opposition role—often hearing pleas like, “Watoto hawajaenda shule” (The children haven’t gone to school).

“If I quit, who will help these people?” he asked rhetorically. “I still have the strength to keep going.”

Despite his personal challenges, Kalonzo remains a formidable figure in Kenya’s political landscape, eyeing the presidency with unwavering determination. He acknowledged the “betrayal and trickery” that define Kenyan politics but refused to let it derail him.

“I do not take it to heart. I know people are struggling for space and want to achieve certain visions. I have my own vision to serve and lead this country, and I think that time has come,” he asserted.