Since the call for reforms started last month, there has been a resurgence in political parties and coalitions. The push for dialogue and the formation of a broad-based government has created uncertainty about the future of the Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya Coalition.
Wednesday’s Cabinet nominations, which included members of Raila Odinga’s ODM party in President William Ruto’s administration, are likely to disrupt the coalition. Azimio co-principals have been divided since the “handshake” debate began.
On Tuesday, ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna issued a statement dismissing rumors that the party was joining the government. Leaders accuse Raila of betrayal as ODM aligns with the government, highlighting his role as a political power broker. The ODM party faces an uncertain future amid political realignments, emphasizing that the more things change, the more they stay the same. Sifuna expressed regret that some members had fallen for a campaign of lies, interpreting their stance as a license to engage with the Kenya Kwanza leadership and seek positions in Ruto’s government.
“As a party, we want to make it clear that we are not in talks with the Ruto regime for any coalition or political arrangement. Any ODM member who decides to join the Kenya Kwanza cabinet or any other position does so without the party’s approval or support,” he stated.
However, a few hours later, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna was embarrassed when his party chairman, John Mbadi, along with deputy party leaders Wycliffe Oparanya and Hassan Joho, and National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi, were nominated to the Cabinet.
Trouble in the Azimio coalition started after its leaders were seen with President William Ruto during the signing of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Bill, where several issues were agreed upon. Many Kenyans criticized this move, even as the President and the Opposition, particularly Raila, stressed the importance of dialogue and forming a government of national unity to quell nationwide protests by the youth.
The aggressive reaction from Kenyans prompted Raila and his coalition partners to seemingly reverse their stance. The national dialogue promised by Ruto failed to materialize, and instead, Azimio parties held differing views on the matter.
Initially, ODM expressed willingness to support measures, including a national conversation, to restore peace. “As a party, ODM has never shied away from engaging in difficult conversations when the nation’s destiny is at stake. Leadership emerges in times of crisis,” said Sifuna.
However, days later, an Azimio parliamentary group meeting descended into chaos when intruders interrupted a speech by Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka. Interestingly, Raila and Sifuna had already left the venue. Present at the meeting were DAP-K Party leader Eugene Wamalwa, PNU leader Peter Munya, and Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni.
Kalonzo later issued a statement asserting that Wiper, Jubilee, DAP-K, PNU, and Narc Kenya would not join the government, calling it a betrayal of Kenyans, especially the youth. “We will not join because such actions betray the ideology, values, and principles of our coalition and constituent parties. As long as the Kenya Kwanza regime is in power, nothing will change. A Cabinet reorganization and change of office holders will only be superficial,” Kalonzo said last week.
Yesterday, Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua stated: “I haven’t seen any indication from Kenyans that the opposition should join the KK administration to address the high cost of living, extrajudicial killings, or youth unemployment. As the Wiper party under Dr. Kalonzo Musyoka’s leadership, we stand firmly with the people of Kenya.”
On Wednesday, Narc Kenya leader Martha Karua distanced herself from Raila’s move, posting on X: “Let every person stand by the courage of their convictions #AlutaContinua.”
On Sunday, Raila issued six demands to the government before engaging in talks.
He affirmed his commitment to the ongoing reforms and indicated his willingness to forgo his ambitions for the African Union Commission chairmanship for the sake of the country.
Addressing the young and resilient generation, Raila emphasized that justice must precede any talks and supported some of the demands put forth by Gen Z. “Once these issues are resolved, we can focus on a national conversation conducted transparently in a neutral venue,” he said.
Separately, Wiper Secretary General Senator Shakila Abdalla reiterated their commitment to staying in Azimio. “We believe our party leader should be respected as a national leader. We commend Raila for his stance against joining the Kenya Kwanza government. We support the ODM statement that those wishing to join should do so independently and stop dividing Azimio,” she said.
Abdalla emphasized their dedication to addressing the protesters’ grievances. “We do not want a coalition or dialogue. This is not a political issue but one of leadership, mismanagement, and corruption. We want the President to be transparent about how and when he will tackle these issues. Everything should be on the table.”
Meanwhile, some Nyanza leaders urged Azimio and Kenyans to support President Ruto. In a statement, eight former MPs and four former MCAs said, “We urge Kenyans to be wary of infiltration and incitement to war by external forces. These are challenging times globally. The winning nations will be those who avoid civil war.” They added, “Many of Kenya’s problems are international, stemming from global warming, recession, and food insecurity. Let’s strive to maintain peace.” The statement was signed by former Nyatike MP Omondi Anyanga.