Narc Kenya’s leader, Martha Karua, has delivered a direct message to her Wiper counterpart, Kalonzo Musyoka, advising him to prioritize presenting himself to the electorate over engaging in internal coalition disputes. This advice follows mounting internal divisions within the Azimio la Umoja – One Kenya coalition, particularly as Raila Odinga’s potential departure to serve as the African Union Commission chairman looms on the horizon.
Karua’s remarks were prompted by a local publication quoting Kalonzo Musyoka asserting himself as the most suitable candidate to lead the coalition post-Raila. In response, Karua utilized her official platform to emphasize that the electorate, not the coalition’s leadership, should determine who leads.
The political arena has become increasingly charged with succession politics, especially after Narc Kenya officially threw its weight behind Karua as Raila’s successor within the coalition. The party staunchly backs Karua, affirming, “Our next president will hail from Narc Kenya in 2027, as Raila sets his sights on a higher position beyond the Kenyan presidency. Hence, we pledge our unwavering support to Martha Karua until she achieves that status.”
Simultaneously, a faction within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), led by former Mombasa Governor Hassan Ali Joho, has expressed interest in succeeding Raila.
Joho, emphasizing his enduring loyalty to both the party and Raila, declared, “No individual in this nation has weathered political storms for standing by ODM and Raila Odinga more than myself.”
Raila’s endorsement of Joho and former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya as potential successors has injected further complexity into the unfolding narrative. His confidence in their capacity to lead the party, even in his absence, underscores ODM’s deep-seated allegiance and structural solidity.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, statements from figures like Karua and Joho illuminate the escalating contest for leadership within both Azimio and ODM. With Raila’s prospective departure looming, the coalition and its constituent parties brace for a pivotal juncture that could redefine the trajectory of Kenyan politics.
