Former Interior Principal Secretary Karanja Kibicho on Wednesday called on opposition leaders aligned with former President Uhuru Kenyatta to unite behind a single presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during the burial of former Senator Daniel Karaba in Kirinyaga County, Kibicho warned that internal divisions could weaken the opposition’s ability to respond to growing economic challenges affecting millions of Kenyans.
Kibicho framed Karaba’s legacy as a call for political cohesion, urging leaders present to work together for the country’s future.
“As he lies here, his message would be Work together to make this nation a great country,” Kibicho said.
He cautioned that disunity would undermine efforts to address national concerns, particularly the rising cost of living.
“If you allow yourselves to be divided, he will be watching from above and reminding you that this country is going through many tribulations,” he added.
Unity push ahead of 2027
Kibicho painted a stark picture of the economic situation, saying many Kenyans are struggling despite working hard.
“Many of the people attending this burial today, at least half of them will not have food for dinner not because they do not work hard, but because all their hard work is going into the wrong hands,” he said.
In a symbolic gesture, Kibicho asked several leaders, including Uhuru Kenyatta, Kalonzo Musyoka, Fred Matiang’i, Rigathi Gachagua, Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa and Justin Muturi, to stand and face mourners.
“Please stand up and look at the people Do not shame us,” he said.
The appeal comes months after a January 2026 meeting at Ufungamano House, where opposition figures pledged to field a single presidential candidate.
At that meeting, Muturi was endorsed as leader of the Democratic Party and its presidential flagbearer, placing him among potential contenders in a joint ticket.
Leaders have since maintained that unity remains essential to mounting a credible challenge in 2027.
“There is no other formula. Unity is the only path to victory,” Musyoka said during earlier consultations.
