Veteran politician and former Justice Minister Martha Karua is set to launch her rebranded political party, the People’s Liberation Party (PLP), on February 28. The party, formerly known as Narc Kenya, has undergone a significant transformation as part of Karua’s broader strategy for the 2027 general elections.
The launch event is expected to attract key opposition leaders, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa. Wamalwa has already confirmed his attendance and hinted at a major political announcement during the event.
Karua, alongside Gachagua, Kalonzo, and Wamalwa, has been actively engaging in discussions about forming a political alliance to challenge President William Ruto in the upcoming elections. Their meetings, some of which have been held in Nairobi and the Mt. Kenya region, signal a strategic move to consolidate opposition support and unify efforts ahead of 2027.
The rebranding of Narc Kenya to PLP signifies more than just a name change. It marks a shift in the party’s identity and appeal, particularly towards the younger generation, including Gen Z voters. This demographic has played a crucial role in recent political movements against the Kenya Kwanza administration, making them a key constituency in Karua’s plans.
PLP’s transformation includes a new party symbol, colors, and slogan. The party has replaced its luminous red and white theme with lilac, white, and purple, while its symbol has changed from a rose flower to a purple rose. Additionally, the party has adopted the slogan “Unite” and “Liberate,” replacing its previous “One Kenya, One Nation, One People.”
Registrar of Political Parties Anne Nderitu officially handed Karua the name-change certificate last month, commending the party for adhering to legal requirements under the Political Parties Act, 2011. Karua has emphasized that the changes reflect a generational shift in leadership and a commitment to democratic values.
Beyond its rebranding, PLP has also proposed radical constitutional amendments, including the introduction of term limits for top party leadership. Karua has stated that she will not seek re-election in the next party elections, setting a precedent for leadership renewal within the party.
With the February 28 launch approaching, the event is expected to send a strong political message, particularly concerning opposition unity and the evolving political landscape in Kenya. The coming days will reveal more about PLP’s strategy and its potential impact on the 2027 elections.
