The Azimio La Umoja coalition, once a formidable force in Kenyan politics, is now facing significant internal strife following Raila Odinga’s controversial move to collaborate with President William Ruto’s administration. The coalition, which has traditionally been seen as a united opposition front, is now witnessing mounting pressure from its affiliate parties, leading to calls for the removal of the ODM Party from the alliance.
In a recent development, three key parties within the Azimio coalition—PNU, Jubilee, and DAP-K—have voiced their discontent with ODM’s new political alignment. They argue that Raila Odinga’s decision to engage with the Ruto government undermines the coalition’s ability to effectively oversee and hold the Kenya Kwanza administration accountable. The dissatisfaction has led former President Uhuru Kenyatta, the chair of the Azimio coalition, to call for a crucial meeting to deliberate on the future of the alliance.
The forthcoming meeting, scheduled for this week, is expected to address the growing concerns within the coalition and explore potential strategies to strengthen its position. The meeting’s agenda will likely include discussions on whether ODM should be expelled from the coalition or whether alternative measures should be considered to ensure the coalition remains effective in its oversight role.
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has been vocal about his concerns, framing the situation as a betrayal of the coalition’s founding principles. Speaking during a church service in Kirinyaga, Musyoka criticized the recent alignment with the Ruto administration, suggesting that President Ruto’s government is operating unconstitutionally, especially in light of recent protests by Generation Z. He condemned the government’s actions, which he claims have been fueled by the blood of youths who lost their lives while advocating for better governance.
Jeremiah Kioni, the Secretary General of the Jubilee Party, has echoed Musyoka’s sentiments, accusing ODM of double standards. Kioni argues that ODM’s shift is contrary to the spirit of the 2010 constitution, which was designed to promote transparency and accountability. He expressed frustration that some leaders within the coalition have invoked the name of retired President Uhuru Kenyatta to justify their positions, a move Kioni believes only serves to validate their controversial decisions.
The Jubilee Secretary General also criticized the broad-based government formed under Ruto’s leadership, alleging that it is a continuation of oppressive practices aimed at marginalizing ordinary Kenyans. He contends that Ruto’s administration has co-opted opposition figures to consolidate power, further entrenching the regime’s control.
Eugene Wamalwa, the leader of DAP-K, has confirmed that the Azimio National Executive Council (NEC) will convene this week to address these critical issues. Wamalwa indicated that the NEC’s meeting will be pivotal in shaping the coalition’s response to ODM’s alignment with the Ruto administration. He warned that Kenyans are being coerced into supporting the Kenya Kwanza government as a result of ODM’s participation in Ruto’s cabinet.
The rift within the Azimio coalition is particularly notable given the high-profile appointments of several opposition leaders to Ruto’s cabinet. Key figures such as Hassan Joho, John Mbadi, Wycliffe Oparanya, and Opiyo Wandayi have been appointed as cabinet secretaries, signaling a significant shift in the political landscape.
As the Azimio coalition grapples with these internal divisions, the political future of the alliance remains uncertain. The outcome of the upcoming NEC meeting will be crucial in determining whether the coalition can overcome its current challenges and regain its cohesion, or if it will succumb to the growing pressures and fragmentation.
The developments in the Azimio coalition highlight the dynamic and often volatile nature of Kenyan politics, where alliances can shift rapidly and longstanding partnerships can fracture under the weight of political ambition and strategic realignments.
