NAIROBI, Kenya — Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya is considering a rebrand and broader membership as opposition leaders intensify efforts to consolidate their political forces ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The coalition’s Joint Council and National Executive Committee (NEC) held a meeting to review applications from political parties seeking to join Azimio, with the leadership approving the applications and clearing the way for the parties to formally enter the coalition.
Azimio Secretary General Caroli Omondi said the coalition was also exploring the possibility of changing its identity as part of efforts to build a broader and more inclusive opposition platform.
“We had normal housekeeping issues to look at the options of rebranding,” Omondi said during a press briefing.
Opposition Pushes United Alternative Government
The developments come as opposition leaders seek to establish a united political vehicle capable of mounting a stronger challenge to President William Ruto in the 2027 elections.
Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka said opposition parties remained committed to consultations aimed at creating what they termed a United Alternative Government.
“The United Alternative Government is ready and able. We will continue those consultations,” Kalonzo said.
The opposition’s unity efforts are expected to focus on bringing together parties and political leaders while addressing questions around the coalition’s structure, membership and leadership ahead of the polls.
A possible rebrand would potentially give the coalition a new identity as it seeks to widen its appeal beyond its existing political formations.
Azimio Criticises Government Over Tata Chemicals
Azimio leaders also criticised the government over its handling of Tata Chemicals and its position on foreign nationals doing business in Kenya.
The opposition accused the administration of adopting positions that could undermine regional integration and Kenya’s obligations within the East African Community.
Kalonzo particularly defended the rights of foreign nationals living and conducting business in Kenya, citing the treatment of Burundian nationals as part of a broader debate over constitutionalism and civil liberties.
“Our brothers and sisters from Burundi are part of the East African Community, and they deserve dignity, not suspicion,” Kalonzo said.
Opposition Raises Alarm Over Linda Mwananchi Rally
The coalition also raised concerns over alleged plans to disrupt a Linda Mwananchi rally scheduled for Sunday.
Opposition leaders called on security agencies to ensure the gathering proceeds peacefully and accused unnamed groups of potentially seeking to interfere with the event.
DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa urged the police to prevent violence and maintain order.
“We expect police to rain down on goonism,” Wamalwa said.
The remarks come amid growing political activity as parties begin positioning themselves for the 2027 elections.
Azimio Defends Uhuru Kenyatta’s Political Freedom
Azimio leaders also defended retired President Uhuru Kenyatta’s right to associate with and support political formations of his choice.
David Murathe said Kenyatta was free to determine his political associations without restrictions.
According to Murathe, Kenyatta “has the freedom to associate and even to support whoever he feels like”.
The statement comes amid continued speculation over the political alignments of senior opposition figures and former leaders as the country moves closer to the 2027 election cycle.
Mobilisation Set to Intensify
Azimio is expected to intensify its grassroots mobilisation in Garissa and Tana River as the opposition seeks to build momentum and strengthen its organisational structures.
