Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka defied calls from a section of leaders to back retired President Mwai Kibaki as he sought his second term in power in 2007.
Kalonzo disclosed that there were a number of leaders who approached, tried to convince him to make a U-turn after he declared an interest in the same seat.
Among the powerful Kenyans who approached Kalonzo were Stanley Murage, a Kibaki adviser and strategist. Equity Bank chairman Peter Munga, the bank’s chief executive James Mwangi and Nairobi tycoon Chris Kirubi .
He also revealed that Kibaki tried to convince him to back his candidature following an unexpected meeting at the Devki Group of Companies' chairman Narendra Raval Guru's home.
The Wiper leader, however, refused to bow to pressure and went ahead to contest for the position.
Kalonzo divulged he had told Kibaki that he would appoint him into his government if he wins the election.
He lost the presidency to Kibaki though.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and his then-running mate William Ruto rejected the election's outcome.
The move resulted in the 2007/08 post-election violence.
Kalonzo decided to cross over to Kibaki’s side following his appointment as the Vice President.
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