Internal Strife Deepens: Why Azimio Co-Principals Met Without Raila
The division within the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition deepened as six of its affiliated parties convened a meeting to determine their next steps.
Notably absent from this gathering was the ODM party, which was joined by six other co-principals.
The meeting, which took place on Thursday in Westlands, Nairobi, was attended by leaders from the Wiper Democratic Movement, Narc Kenya, DAP-K, Jubilee, PNU, and Charity Ngilu’s party, all of whom are vocally critical of the grand coalition government.
These leaders claimed they were seeking broad consultation before deciding on their future actions.
A photo that circulated widely on social media depicted the Azimio co-principals in intense discussions aimed at re-strategizing after the coalition’s recent disruptions.
The image featured Martha Karua, Kalonzo Musyoka, Jeremiah Kioni, Peter Munya, Charity Ngilu, Enock Wambua, and Eugene Wamalwa engaged in a focused dialogue.
Kalonzo Musyoka commented, “My stance is aligned with the Kenyan people and Gen Zs; this country has been transformed irrevocably.”
Karua’s caption read, “Definitely not boarding,” likely indicating a reluctance to engage in the proposed talks involving Raila and his rival William Ruto.
The absence of ODM at this critical meeting has fueled speculation and raised doubts about the coalition’s cohesion and future.
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Daniel Manduku, MP for Nyaribari Masaba, previously revealed that ODM had resolved to enter discussions with the current government.
ODM National Chairman John Mbadi addressed the issue, denying any split in the opposition coalition, but acknowledged significant issues that could necessitate drastic measures.
“Azimio remains united, but if these glaring differences prove unresolvable, the coalition might be dissolved, and parties may need to regroup for 2027. ODM values transparency and honesty,” Mbadi stated.
The Wiper party has called for an explanation regarding why their leader had to seek safety after a disturbance by unruly youth during their address.
This incident appears to have exacerbated tensions within the coalition, underscoring the deep-seated conflicts among the parties.
As the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition grapples with these internal issues, its future remains uncertain.
Politicians allied with Raila Odinga have criticized him for advocating dialogue with President William Ruto’s beleaguered administration.
Some Kenyans have accused Raila of betraying the pursuit of accountability and good governance from President Ruto.
Internal Strife Deepens: Why Azimio Co-Principals Met Without Raila