Amidst swirling rumors and media speculation, the Azimio La Umoja coalition has made it clear that they have no intentions of joining President William Ruto’s proposed broad-based government. This confirmation came through a statement by Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka during a press briefing.
The press conference, following a meeting among individual party leaders within the coalition, addressed the growing conjectures about potential collaborations with the Kenya Kwanza administration. Kalonzo Musyoka emphasized the coalition’s commitment to the Kenyan people, stating, “We reiterate our public position that when it comes to siding with Gen Zs, and the Kenyan people, our decision is as obvious as day and night, we will always stand with the people of Kenya.”
Kalonzo further addressed specific rumors regarding the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Raila Odinga’s alleged plans to join the Ruto administration, categorically denying such claims. He clarified that Raila had proposed a national convention, not a dialogue with the government, which aims to gather broader public input rather than entering into any governmental arrangement.
“This is something we need to reflect on after what our leader, Raila Odinga, called a national convention and not a dialogue,” Kalonzo explained. He stressed the need for an engagement regarding an interim or transitional government only after such a convention.
The clarification comes in the wake of Raila Odinga’s own comments during a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, where he criticized sections of the media for misinterpreting his intentions. “ODM never said that it was going into bed with Ruto. We never said it. It is a creation of the media,” Raila asserted. He continued to highlight the purpose of the proposed National Convention, stating, “What we are calling for is a National Convention where all Kenyans will be brought on board to air their views. It is a fact everyone is annoyed with Kenya Kwanza.”
These statements from Azimio’s top leaders reinforce the coalition’s stance of operating independently from the current government, focusing instead on mobilizing and articulating the demands and frustrations of their constituents. The coalition leaders continue to push for a more inclusive process through which the Kenyan public can actively participate in shaping the nation’s political future.
