Kitui Central Member of Parliament (MP) Makali Mulu has announced that the United Opposition will unveil its presidential candidate one year before the next general election. Mulu stated that this timeline will allow Kenyans enough time to scrutinise the nominee and understand their vision for the country.
Speaking in an interview on Monday, October 13, 2025, Mulu explained that the decision aims to promote a transparent and structured process for selecting a unifying candidate capable of leading the opposition coalition to victory.
“There is push and pull because these individuals come from different political backgrounds,” Mulu said. “For them to agree, there must be give and take. This is normal in any coalition.”
The MP downplayed reports of rifts within the coalition, describing them as normal negotiations that occur when several parties collaborate. He assured Kenyans that the opposition remains united and committed to presenting a strong front ahead of the polls.
“Kenyans should have no issues with this. As we approach the election, there will be a day when we announce the candidate, and all parties have committed to rally behind them,” Mulu said.
According to the legislator, coalition-building involves aligning party manifestos, sharing leadership roles, and conducting opinion polls to identify the most popular and suitable candidate.
“Each party has a manifesto, and we need to agree on which elements to include in a unified plan. Opinion polling is also being conducted across the country to gauge which candidate resonates most with Kenyans,” he added.
Mulu reiterated that the coalition will not wait until the last minute to unveil its flagbearer. “Kenyans will have at least one year to evaluate the candidate’s record and suitability to lead the nation,” he concluded.
He also dismissed reports of tension between senior leaders, such as Rigathi Gachagua and Fred Matiang’i, calling them normal coalition dynamics and not a threat to the opposition’s unity.
