NAIROBI, Kenya – Former The National Alliance (TNA) Secretary-General Onyango Oloo has launched a new political party and declared his intention to contest the presidency in the 2027 General Election, subject to endorsement by party members.
Oloo’s Freedom and Opportunity Party (FOP) received its full registration certificate on Monday, becoming the 102nd political party in Kenya.
Speaking after receiving the certificate, Oloo said he was ready to seek the country’s top seat if members approved his candidacy.
“I am offering myself to contest for the top seat. If party members endorse it, I will be in the race,” he said.
His declaration adds another potential contender to the field of politicians positioning themselves for the 2027 presidential race against incumbent President William Ruto.
Oloo Rules Out Coalitions Without Shared Principles
Oloo said his immediate focus was to build FOP and establish its identity before considering coalition negotiations with other political parties.
He cautioned against joining alliances merely for political convenience, insisting that any partnership must be based on shared principles and objectives.
“We will not join a coalition just for the sake of joining. Their aspirations must align with ours. We want to work with like-minded parties,” he said.
Oloo said the party would not pursue power at all costs, arguing that its main objective was to improve the lives of Kenyans rather than simply secure positions in government.
“We do not want to form the next government at all costs. Our ultimate objective is to transform lives,” he said.
He added that FOP would accept either a government or Opposition role, depending on the outcome of the election.
“If Kenyans give us the opportunity to be in Opposition, we will thank them for giving us the role to check the government in place. It will be an honour. If they give us the opportunity to form government, the better,” Oloo said.
Registrar Urges New Party To Uphold Its Ideology
During the certificate presentation, Registrar of Political Parties John Cox Lorionokou challenged Oloo to remain faithful to FOP’s declared ideology and principles.
“I want to believe that you have a reason for wanting to be there,” Lorionokou said.
He urged the new party to contribute to strengthening Kenya’s democracy by providing citizens with opportunities to exercise their political rights and participate meaningfully in political processes.
Lorionokou also called on FOP to create space for young people, noting concerns that many had been denied meaningful opportunities within political parties.
“You stated your ideology, what you stand for. We want you to follow that and be part of the shapers of democracy in Kenya,” he said.
He expressed hope that FOP would live up to its name by opening up political participation and giving Kenyans opportunities to have their voices heard.
“I look forward to seeing you being a party of opportunities, as you said, allowing Kenyans to get some space and exercise their political rights,” he said.
FOP Enters Increasingly Charged Political Environment
Lorionokou cautioned that establishing and running a political party would not be easy, particularly as political activity intensifies ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“It is a challenging environment, you know. The environment is already charged,” he said.
He urged Oloo to maintain a national outlook and avoid limiting the party’s appeal to particular groups or regions.
“Keep your party as national as possible,” he added.
