Efforts to unite Kenya’s opposition forces against President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 general election have officially begun—but not without early friction.
The emerging coalition is facing internal tensions, particularly surrounding the choice of a presidential flag bearer, with Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka’s camp raising objections over perceived favoritism toward former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i.
At the heart of the dispute is the role of Jubilee Party in the coalition talks. Tuesday’s strategy meeting featured Jubilee Chairman Torome Saitoti in place of Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni, a move seen as an attempt to ease tensions after Kioni reportedly declared the party’s endorsement of Matiang’i for president—before consensus had been reached.
Musyoka’s allies have expressed concern over what they see as an imposition of Matiang’i’s candidacy.
“If Uhuru couldn’t make Raila Odinga president in 2022, how will he succeed with Matiang’i now that he is retired?” asked Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo.
Despite the disagreements, the meeting brought together an influential lineup of leaders, including Rigathi Gachagua, Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa, Justin Muturi, Mithika Linturi, and Mukhisa Kituyi.
Dr Matiang’i made his first public appearance with the group, a move seen as a tacit endorsement by former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Gachagua, who described the gathering as “a team to liberate Kenya,” welcomed Matiang’i, signaling a deepening alliance against the current administration.
Discussions included forming a coalition modeled after the 2002 National Rainbow Coalition (Narc), allowing party leaders to declare presidential ambitions and mobilize regional support before a final candidate is picked next year.
Political observers view the opposition realignment as significant. “This shows the opposition is putting the country first,” said Prof Gitile Naituli of Multimedia University.
However, critics like former Kanu Secretary-General Nick Salat dismissed the effort as a return of “the usual suspects,” questioning the credibility of some members, including Matiang’i, over past human rights concerns.
With more leaders expected to join, the opposition faces the challenge of managing competing ambitions while maintaining unity. The coalition’s success may hinge on its ability to agree on a flag bearer and present a clear alternative to Ruto’s presidency in 2027.
