NAIROBI, Kenya – The Azimio la Umoja coalition has named Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka as its new head.
This decision comes as Raila Odinga, the outgoing coalition leader, transitions to a continental role, launching his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.
Shortly after Odinga’s candidacy was formally announced at a high-profile event at State House, Nairobi, Azimio co-principals, led by Eugene Wamalwa of the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K), expressed their unwavering support for Musyoka.
“In Azimio, there will be no vacuum,” Wamalwa declared. “As Raila leaves, the next ranking member, Hon. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, will take the helm.”
Wamalwa underscored Musyoka’s qualifications, noting his experience as a former Vice President and his diplomatic skills, which he believes will guide Azimio effectively.
“We have, by consensus, chosen Kalonzo to step forward and lead our coalition. His experience and dedication make him the natural successor,” he added.
The transition marks a new chapter for the Azimio coalition, with Wamalwa indicating plans for a fresh approach under Musyoka’s leadership.
The coalition’s first town hall meeting under the new leadership is scheduled for Wednesday at Ufungamano House.
This gathering aims to engage Generation Z, Kenyan youth, the private sector, and civil society on crucial issues such as constitutional defense and educational reforms.
“As Baba (Odinga) leaves for Addis Ababa, there will be no leadership void in Azimio. In fact, our coalition will grow stronger,” Wamalwa stated.
He praised Odinga for his leadership, which nearly saw Azimio clinch victory in the 2022 presidential election.
“Raila has been a unifying figure for us. He will continue to be our Baba, now with a broader vision for the African continent,” Wamalwa said.
The State House event, which marked the official launch of Odinga’s AUC campaign, was attended by President William Ruto and regional leaders, including Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni.
In a subsequent press conference at the SK Command Centre in Karen, Azimio leaders reiterated their confidence in Musyoka and saluted Odinga’s decision to take on a larger role in African politics.
Odinga’s campaign for the AUC chairmanship is already gaining momentum, with backing from 19 African nations.
He seeks to replace Moussa Faki Mahamat of Chad, whose term concludes early next year.
This decision comes as Raila Odinga, the outgoing coalition leader, transitions to a continental role, launching his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.
Shortly after Odinga’s candidacy was formally announced at a high-profile event at State House, Nairobi, Azimio co-principals, led by Eugene Wamalwa of the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K), expressed their unwavering support for Musyoka.
“In Azimio, there will be no vacuum,” Wamalwa declared. “As Raila leaves, the next ranking member, Hon. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, will take the helm.”
Wamalwa underscored Musyoka’s qualifications, noting his experience as a former Vice President and his diplomatic skills, which he believes will guide Azimio effectively.
“We have, by consensus, chosen Kalonzo to step forward and lead our coalition. His experience and dedication make him the natural successor,” he added.
The transition marks a new chapter for the Azimio coalition, with Wamalwa indicating plans for a fresh approach under Musyoka’s leadership.
The coalition’s first town hall meeting under the new leadership is scheduled for Wednesday at Ufungamano House.
This gathering aims to engage Generation Z, Kenyan youth, the private sector, and civil society on crucial issues such as constitutional defense and educational reforms.
“As Baba (Odinga) leaves for Addis Ababa, there will be no leadership void in Azimio. In fact, our coalition will grow stronger,” Wamalwa stated.
He praised Odinga for his leadership, which nearly saw Azimio clinch victory in the 2022 presidential election.
“Raila has been a unifying figure for us. He will continue to be our Baba, now with a broader vision for the African continent,” Wamalwa said.
The State House event, which marked the official launch of Odinga’s AUC campaign, was attended by President William Ruto and regional leaders, including Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni.
In a subsequent press conference at the SK Command Centre in Karen, Azimio leaders reiterated their confidence in Musyoka and saluted Odinga’s decision to take on a larger role in African politics.
Odinga’s campaign for the AUC chairmanship is already gaining momentum, with backing from 19 African nations.
He seeks to replace Moussa Faki Mahamat of Chad, whose term concludes early next year.
