NARC–Kenya party leader Martha Karua has once again reaffirmed her loyalty to the late Raila Odinga, making it clear that she has no intentions of working with President William Ruto. Speaking with her characteristic firmness, Karua dismissed any speculation of possible cooperation with the Kenya Kwanza administration, saying there is a world of difference between Ruto and Raila.
“I cannot consider working with President Ruto. There is no comparison between Raila Odinga and William Ruto,” Karua declared.
Her remarks come at a time when political realignments are already taking shape following the death of the veteran opposition leader, Raila Odinga. As the Azimio coalition grapples with questions of leadership and direction, Karua’s words seem to reaffirm her position as one of Raila’s most steadfast allies and defenders.
Martha Karua, often referred to as the “Iron Lady” of Kenyan politics, stood beside Raila Odinga during the 2022 General Election as his running mate under the Azimio la Umoja–One Kenya Alliance. Their partnership symbolized a coalition of reformist forces determined to challenge the Kenya Kwanza regime. Despite losing the election, Karua has remained a vocal critic of President Ruto’s government, constantly questioning its legitimacy and governance style.
Her latest statement reinforces her long-held political stance — that working with Ruto would betray the ideals she has championed for decades. For Karua, Raila Odinga represented integrity, democracy, and a lifelong struggle for justice, while she views Ruto’s leadership as opportunistic and self-serving.
Since Raila’s passing, various leaders have been making public statements that hint at new political alignments ahead of the next election cycle. However, Karua’s strong declaration indicates that she is not among those seeking reconciliation with Ruto’s administration. Instead, she seems focused on preserving Raila’s political legacy and continuing the push for accountability and reform.
Political observers believe her statement is also a signal to other Azimio members who might be tempted to shift allegiance now that the coalition’s future appears uncertain. By drawing a clear moral and ideological line between Raila and Ruto, Karua is positioning herself as the torchbearer of Raila’s vision — one rooted in justice, transparency, and good governance.
Reactions to her remarks have been mixed. Supporters of Azimio praised her for staying true to her principles and refusing to compromise for political convenience. On the other hand, Ruto’s allies dismissed her comments as bitter politics, accusing her of being stuck in the past and unable to accept the country’s political realities.
Nevertheless, Martha Karua’s bold statement has once again reminded Kenyans why she remains one of the most respected and fearless voices in national politics. In a landscape where alliances shift easily, Karua’s consistency — whether admired or criticized — continues to define her political identity.
As Kenya moves into a new political chapter without Raila Odinga, it is clear that Martha Karua intends to remain a strong defender of his legacy and a firm opponent of the current regime.
