Narc Kenya party leader Martha Karua has issued a stark message to her Wiper counterpart Kalonzo Musyoka, urging him to concentrate on presenting himself to the electorate rather than engaging in internal coalition debates. This comes as the Azimio la Umoja – One Kenya coalition faces growing internal divisions ahead of Raila Odinga’s potential departure to serve as the African Union Commission chairman (AUC).
Karua’s comments were a direct response to a report by a local publication that quoted Kalonzo claiming he was the most suitable candidate to lead the coalition post-Raila. However, Karua took to her official X account to assert that the decision of leadership should rest with the voters, not within the ranks of the coalition’s elite.
Narc-K Party leader Hon Martha Karua speaks during a past media presser. Photo: The star
“My unsolicited advice to my brother Kalonzo Musyoka is to focus on marketing himself and leave the decision of who is best to the voters,” stated Karua, signaling a clear stance on the matter of succession.
The political landscape has been rife with succession politics, particularly after Narc Kenya officially endorsed Karua as the successor to Raila within the coalition. The party has vowed unwavering support for Karua, declaring, “Our president will be from Narc Kenya in 2027 because Raila is aiming for a higher position; bigger than the Kenyan presidency. So, we will support Martha Karua wholeheartedly until she attains that position.”
Meanwhile, a faction within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), including former Mombasa Governor Hassan Ali Joho, has also shown interest in succeeding Raila.
Martha Karua gestures during a past media interview
Hassan Joho, emphasizing his longstanding loyalty to the party and Raila, stated, “No one in this country has gone through political turmoil for standing with ODM and Raila Odinga more than me.”
Raila’s endorsement of Joho and former Kakamega governor Wycliffe Oparanya as potential successors has added another layer to the unfolding drama. Raila’s confidence in their ability to lead the party, even in his absence, underscores the deep-rooted loyalty and foundational strength of ODM.
As the political intrigue continues, the statements from Karua and Joho highlight the intensifying battle for leadership within Azimio and ODM. With Raila’s potential exit on the horizon, the coalition and its constituent parties brace for a transformative period that could redefine the future of Kenyan politics.
