Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has signaled a major restructuring of the Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition as opposition leaders begin early preparations for the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a televised interview on Citizen TV Sunday night, Kalonzo said consultations are ongoing within the opposition alliance, also known as the United Alternative Government, to rebrand Azimio into a more formidable political vehicle capable of fielding a single presidential candidate.
The former vice president said the coalition could adopt a new identity, with Ukombozi emerging as a possible name. He urged leaders to utilise the existing coalition structure while aligning it with current political realities.
Kalonzo said he has taken over leadership of Azimio from Raila Odinga, while former President Uhuru Kenyatta, who chairs the coalition council, is expected to step back ahead of the polls.
He raised concerns over delays in formalising internal changes, particularly the position of secretary general, maintaining that Martha Karua remains the rightful office holder.
Push for opposition unity
Kalonzo emphasised that unity remains key to the opposition strategy, drawing parallels with the 2002 elections when rival factions merged to form a winning alliance.
He said talks are underway to rally leaders behind a single presidential candidate to face President William Ruto in 2027.
Despite declaring himself ready to run, Kalonzo said he is willing to step aside if consensus among opposition leaders requires it.
“I will be the first among equals if that is what my colleagues decide,” he said, adding that the goal is to deliver change for Kenyans.
He confirmed he received the mandate on 10 October last year to pursue the presidency and expressed confidence in his support base.
Kalonzo also pointed to shifting political alignments, including the rise of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, noting that different factions may eventually unite ahead of the election.
As Kenya political landscape evolves, the proposed Azimio rebrand signals a renewed push by the opposition to reorganise and strengthen its challenge in 2027.
