As Kenya inches closer to the 2027 general elections, People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua has declared her willingness to form alliances with any political leader, including former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. However, she has made it clear that she will not be running as a deputy in any ticket, instead suggesting that it is time for others, including Odinga, to back her bid.
Speaking during an interview with Citizen TV, Karua emphasized her openness to collaboration with like-minded individuals who are committed to transforming Kenya for the better. “Am I ready to work with Raila? Yes, but not backing him perhaps his backing,” she stated. “And it is not just with Raila but any other Kenyan because we belong to the same country.”
Karua’s remarks come amid speculation regarding her political future, as she prepares to relaunch her party, PLP, formerly known as Narc-Kenya. She reaffirmed her commitment to working with leaders who prioritize national interests over personal ambitions. “We want to redeem this country and transform it to serve Kenyans, not just a few,” she said.
Meanwhile, ODM leader Raila Odinga has yet to disclose his next political move following his unsuccessful bid for the Africa Union Commission chairmanship. While speculation continues to mount over whether he will contest the presidency again in 2027, Odinga has taken a consultative approach before making a decision.
Speaking in Mombasa on Monday after a meeting with President William Ruto, Odinga stated that he would engage his supporters nationwide before announcing his next steps. On Tuesday, he began these consultative meetings in Kisumu, engaging with the youth. “I will not confine myself to Nyanza alone. After this, I will visit other parts of Kenya,” Odinga said, adding that he will make a statement before the end of next week after completing his tour.
Karua and Odinga were running mates in the 2022 elections under the Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya coalition but lost to President William Ruto and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. While Odinga’s political future remains uncertain, Karua’s firm stance on seeking leadership rather than playing second fiddle signals a shift in the opposition’s dynamics as they gear up for 2027.
As both leaders weigh their options, their decisions will shape Kenya’s political landscape in the coming months. Karua’s push for a new political outfit and Odinga’s nationwide consultations indicate that realignments are on the horizon, setting the stage for a competitive race in 2027.
