The Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K), led by Eugene Wamalwa, has announced its decision to exit the Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya Alliance Coalition, a significant move that signals shifting dynamics in Kenya’s opposition landscape. The decision was confirmed during a National Delegates Congress in Webuye, Bungoma County, where Wamalwa highlighted irreconcilable differences with some Azimio affiliates. Specifically, Wamalwa cited the involvement of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), a key Azimio member, in President William Ruto’s government, as the main reason for DAP-K’s exit.
Wamalwa’s announcement marks a strategic departure for the party, which is planning to broaden its base and compete in the 2027 elections across all electoral positions, including the presidency. This development comes as DAP-K joins a list of other parties, such as Martha Karua’s NARC-K and Peter Munya’s PNU, that have expressed dissatisfaction with the coalition. The Azimio coalition, initially a unified opposition force, now faces significant fragmentation, as its members reconsider their alliances amid a shifting political landscape.
Origins and Challenges of the Azimio la Umoja Coalition
Azimio la Umoja was established as a coalition party to challenge the Kenya Kwanza Alliance in the 2022 general elections. It included key parties like ODM, Jubilee, Wiper, and various smaller parties like DAP-K. Together, they hoped to create a united front to contend with Kenya Kwanza’s candidate, William Ruto, who ultimately won the presidential election. Azimio was supported by retired President Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila Odinga, with the latter as the coalition’s presidential candidate.
Following the elections, Azimio struggled to maintain cohesion. The coalition was an umbrella of diverse parties with unique regional strongholds and varied political goals, which often clashed. This lack of internal unity has hindered Azimio’s effectiveness as a cohesive opposition force and has ultimately driven some parties to seek a path outside the coalition.
Why DAP-K and Other Parties Are Leaving Azimio
The main grievance expressed by Wamalwa and other leaders is ODM’s growing involvement with the government. Recently, ODM submitted four members for cabinet appointment in Ruto’s administration, raising questions about its commitment to remaining an opposition party. For parties like DAP-K, which aim to offer genuine opposition, this blurring of lines between government and opposition creates conflicts. Wamalwa stressed that he cannot remain in a coalition with parties that no longer share his party’s ideological opposition stance, stating that “you cannot be in both places,” emphasizing the need for a clearly defined opposition.
Martha Karua, the leader of NARC-K, echoed similar sentiments in a formal letter, noting that her party’s stay in Azimio is “not tenable due to the prevailing political developments.” Her party plans to exit in accordance with the coalition agreement’s exit clauses. PNU leader Peter Munya also confirmed that the party’s National Executive Council would meet to discuss their official exit. As more parties announce plans to exit, the coalition’s unity is under serious threat.
The Legal Process and Political Implications of Exiting Azimio
Under Kenya’s Political Parties (Amendment) Act of 2021, which was signed into law by former President Kenyatta, parties within a coalition can exit as per stipulated exit clauses. The amendment bill was passed to formalize the creation of coalition political parties, allowing smaller parties to retain their identity while rallying around a common agenda in coalitions. However, exiting a coalition still requires a process overseen by the Registrar of Political Parties, who must sanction the move.
The decision by DAP-K and others to exit Azimio has not yet been ratified by the Registrar of Political Parties. Given the political landscape, the registrar’s decision could set a precedent for other parties contemplating similar exits, highlighting the shifting nature of Kenya’s party alliances.
Implications for Kenya’s Political Future
DAP-K’s decision to leave Azimio has broader implications for Kenya’s political system. Kenya’s constitution emphasizes a two-sided political structure, with one side representing the government and the other serving as the opposition. Wamalwa’s concern is that the blurred lines between Azimio and Kenya Kwanza, due to ODM’s recent actions, dilute the effectiveness of the opposition.
DAP-K’s exit could be a signal that smaller parties within coalitions may choose autonomy over perceived ideological compromise. In the coming years, this trend may redefine opposition politics, as parties that had once supported Raila Odinga’s presidential ambitions are now exploring paths outside Azimio. This departure could lead to the formation of a more unified and committed opposition that can effectively hold the government accountable.
DAP-K’s Strategy for 2027 and Future Plans
DAP-K is now preparing for the 2027 elections with a new outlook. The party’s departure from Azimio appears to be part of a long-term strategy aimed at positioning itself as a credible opposition force. Wamalwa disclosed plans to launch a nationwide membership registration drive, expanding the party’s reach and preparing it for competitive participation across all 47 counties.
For the 2027 election cycle, DAP-K intends to field candidates for all electoral positions, including the presidency. This ambitious plan is a clear indication that the party is aiming to become a significant force in national politics. By stepping away from Azimio and asserting its independence, DAP-K seeks to build its brand as a progressive, grassroots party dedicated to advocating for the Kenyan people.
What This Means for Raila Odinga and Azimio
As the leader of ODM and the face of Azimio, Raila Odinga faces the challenge of retaining Azimio’s relevance as a coalition. Losing parties like DAP-K, NARC-K, and PNU represents a substantial weakening of the coalition, reducing its influence in parliament and on the national stage. If more parties choose to follow DAP-K’s path, Azimio may need to reinvent itself or consider a merger with Kenya Kwanza, which could fundamentally alter the nature of opposition politics in Kenya.
Odinga’s leadership of Azimio will be tested in the coming months as he works to navigate the coalition through this crisis. To prevent further erosion, Odinga may need to redefine Azimio’s mission, address internal conflicts, and clarify the coalition’s stance on key national issues. Without a clear strategy, the coalition risks becoming a fractured alliance, unable to effectively check the government.
Kenya’s Political Landscape Moving Forward
The Kenyan political landscape is marked by coalition-based politics, with parties joining forces to bolster their influence. However, the recent moves by DAP-K, NARC-K, and PNU suggest that coalition politics may have limitations. In a coalition, diverse parties with different interests and goals may struggle to maintain long-term unity, especially when ideological differences emerge.
DAP-K’s exit could pave the way for a new wave of political realignments in Kenya. The party’s decision emphasizes the importance of ideological clarity, as parties seek to distinguish themselves from government affiliates. With the 2027 elections on the horizon, political parties in Kenya may need to rethink their strategies, either by forming coalitions with shared goals or by pursuing independent paths to establish themselves in the eyes of the electorate.
Conclusion
The decision by DAP-K to exit the Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya Alliance Coalition is a pivotal moment in Kenya’s political history. It underscores the challenges of coalition politics and the need for ideological consistency in opposition movements. As DAP-K and other parties like NARC-K and PNU redefine their roles outside Azimio, Kenya’s opposition landscape will continue to evolve, potentially leading to a stronger and more distinct opposition force. With the 2027 elections approaching, DAP-K’s departure may serve as a catalyst for other parties seeking clarity in their political identities, ultimately shaping the future of Kenya’s multiparty democracy.
