People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua has changed her stance on not deputizing a presidential candidate again. Speaking during the launch of her rebranded party, Karua stated that while she had previously ruled out serving as a running mate in future elections, the need for national unity and a strong opposition against the Kenya Kwanza administration has led her to reconsider.
Karua emphasized that leadership is about prioritizing the interests of the country over personal ambitions. She noted that as the opposition works towards forming a unified front for the 2027 general elections, the selection of a presidential candidate must be conducted through a transparent and agreed-upon process. The veteran politician asserted that she does not necessarily have to be on the ticket but is fully committed to supporting whoever is chosen.
“Each one of us must subordinate their interest to the interest of the nation. Whoever gets selected as a candidate through a transparent method, we shall all queue behind that person,” Karua stated. “I may have said I don’t want to be deputy, but that doesn’t mean I cannot support another candidate. I don’t have to be in that ticket, but I will put my 100% commitment, if I am not the candidate, to deliver victory to Kenyans. We must liberate ourselves from economic oppression.”
Her remarks signal a shift from her earlier position in January 2024 when she categorically stated that she would no longer serve as anyone’s deputy. At that time, Karua, then the leader of Narc Kenya, was adamant that her focus was solely on running for the presidency. She had declared that the 2022 general election, where she was Raila Odinga’s running mate, was the last time she would play a supporting role.
“To my friend Senator Daniel Karaba, at this level, I cannot become anyone’s deputy again. If there’s any prayer you’re making, it is for me to get the president’s seat that I will vie for in the next election,” she said in January.
Karua’s latest remarks come amid increased efforts by opposition leaders to solidify a coalition that can challenge President William Ruto’s administration in 2027. The event was attended by key political figures, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa.
With the 2027 elections approaching, Karua’s revised position signals a strategic move aimed at fostering unity among opposition leaders. Whether she runs for the presidency or supports another candidate, her influence in shaping Kenya’s political landscape remains significant.
