Raila Addresses Endorsing Kalonzo or Martha Karua as President in 2027
Azimio Leader Raila Odinga spoke out on Saturday regarding the possibility of supporting Kalonzo Musyoka as the presidential candidate for the upcoming 2027 general elections.
Speaking to a gathering during a burial ceremony in Kitui County, Odinga mentioned that it was premature to officially support the candidate chosen by the coalition. He emphasized that he remained an active participant in the political landscape.
“What is the problem if Kalonzo is the candidate? I did not say Kalonzo cannot be a candidate. I just said we came from far with Kalonzo, he supported me and I can also support him,” Raila stated.
“I also did not say I have quit politics. When I quit, I will come out and say it.”
Odinga mentioned that in addition to Kalonzo, numerous other candidates within the coalition were eager to assume leadership responsibilities.
Raila also mentioned that the coalition is in the process of reaching a consensus on a symbolic candidate who will assume the responsibility of leading the coalition.
“When I am away, Kalonzo takes charge but I want people to wait. We have Eugene Wamalwa (former Water CS), (former Kakamega Governor) Wycliffe Oparanya, (Roots Party leader) George Wajackoyah, and (Narc Kenya leader) Martha Karua, all of whom want it,” the Orange Democratic Movement leader noted.
The ex-Prime Minister rejected claims of discord within Azimio, stating that they were intended to create tension within the coalition. Raila emphasized that the leaders of the coalition remained united and were aligned in their approach.
“Kalonzo has been my long-time friend. When people see Kalonzo walking with Eugene Wamalwa, they begin to say that Azimio is breaking up. When Raila goes to ODM recruitment, they claim Azimio is divided,” the Azimio leader noted.
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“Every party in Azimio knows its role. For instance, Wiper has authority, Eugene’s DAP too as well as Jubilee and even ODM. When the affiliate parties have energy, then that is when Azimio is energized.”
Odinga expressed his thoughts two weeks after denying claims of discord within the coalition. During his address in Lamu County on January 23, he asserted that irresponsible media was spreading unfounded rumors.
“We don’t want the media to spread unnecessary and irresponsible propaganda. Azimio has remained intact except for a few members of parliament who decided to take a walk. There is no dissension,” Raila stated.
In October of the previous year, Raila rejected allegations of supporting Kalonzo as the presidential candidate. Odinga stated that it was premature to officially back a candidate at that point.
He clarified that his commendation of the Wiper leader at Oburu Odinga’s birthday celebration was merely a reaffirmation of the support Kalonzo had previously provided to the coalition.
“Odinga therefore clarifies that his praise for H.E. Kalonzo Musyoka for standing with him in three successive elections, the Wiper leader’s strong Christian values, and the support Mr. Musyoka has built across the country was not an endorsement of Mr. Musyoka as the Azimio presidential candidate in 2027,” read part of a statement by Raila Odinga.
“Rather, the praise was an acknowledgment and appreciation of past deeds that are in the public domain.”
Raila Addresses Endorsing Kalonzo or Martha Karua as President in 2027