Former President Uhuru Kenyatta is scheduled to convene a significant meeting of the Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya coalition council on Monday, August 3. This gathering marks a notable return of Uhuru to active opposition politics as the country prepares for the 2027 general election.
The meeting aims to deliberate on the future direction of Azimio, the coalition that supported Raila Odinga in the 2022 presidential race. Following Raila's withdrawal from frontline politics last year, the coalition's stewardship was handed over to Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who has been advocating for a coalition model reminiscent of the 2002 Narc alliance. This structure allows parties to maintain their identities while uniting behind a single presidential candidate.
However, internal disagreements remain. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has expressed opposition to predetermined ticket sharing among parties, emphasizing that each party should independently campaign to the electorate.
Opposition leaders have been in discussions for months about uniting all groups opposed to President William Ruto, but internal rivalry among presidential hopefuls has delayed a comprehensive coalition meeting.
Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo confirmed that Uhuru will lead Monday’s discussions focusing on revitalizing the Azimio coalition. Participating parties will include Wiper, Jubilee, Kanu, and other allies. Talks are also underway to incorporate additional groups such as Linda Mwananchi, DCP, and the People's Liberation Party (PLP).