Opposition principals have reiterated their commitment to field a single presidential candidate in the 2027 elections, even as internal rivalries threaten to undermine their coalition. The unity pledge was made on Friday during the People Liberation Party (PLP) Special National Delegates Conference, where opposition figures sought to reassure supporters that they will not splinter ahead of the next polls.
PLP leader Martha Karua, flanked by Kalonzo Musyoka, Rigathi Gachagua, Eugene Wamalwa, and Justin Muturi, declared that while each leader would continue to grow their individual candidacies, they will eventually converge and agree on a joint flagbearer.
“We have promised ourselves that while we each nurture our ambitions, we will ultimately subordinate them to the interests of Kenyans,” Karua said, adding that if given the ticket, she would only serve one term. She further noted that the coalition will devise a fair power-sharing formula to distribute six top elective positions among its members.
Former Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi emphasized that the opposition’s strength lies in unity. “We know our country is bleeding. We are committed to backing whichever candidate is chosen, and our unity will liberate Kenya,” he said.
Justin Muturi echoed the sentiment, cautioning against infiltration by “moles” who might betray the cause. “If you see any of us falter, know that they are a traitor,” he told delegates.
Rigathi Gachagua acknowledged that President William Ruto would attempt to split the opposition but insisted that sacrifices must be made to present one candidate. “Let everyone mobilize, but in the end, we will have a single candidate to face Ruto,” he said.
Former Gatundu North MP Patrick Muiruri reminded leaders of the 2002 Narc unity that propelled Mwai Kibaki to victory, urging them not to repeat past mistakes by going separate ways.
With the opposition pledging unity but internal ambitions simmering, the race to identify a joint candidate is set to define Kenya’s 2027 political landscape.
