Martha Karua has rejected collaboration with Raila Odinga due to his interactions with President Ruto’s government, labeling them illegal. She demands a clear choice from Odinga regarding his political alliance. Odinga has also questioned the viability of a presidential run for Fred Matiang’i, stressing the need for national support rather than regional votes.
Martha Karua, the leader of the People’s Liberation Party, has categorically ruled out any potential partnership with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga due to his dealings with President William Ruto’s administration. Karua contends that Odinga’s ambiguous role between government and opposition is not legally tenable, necessitating a clear decision from him: formalize a post-election coalition with Kenya Kwanza or solidify his commitment to the opposition.
Karua has criticized Odinga for engaging with the government without a legally binding agreement with President Ruto, denouncing such interactions as unlawful. She insists on the importance of formalizing any agreement with Ruto, arguing that failing to do so perpetuates an “illegal cohabitation” with the government.
The political landscape for Odinga remains precarious. He recently wrapped up a two-week consultative tour across the nation, concluding with a meeting in Nairobi to discuss challenges faced by the Social Health Authority. While in Wajir, he dismissed the idea of collaborating with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Odinga has also questioned the potential for former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i to mount a successful presidential campaign. He remarked that victory hinges on comprehensive national support rather than regional backing, stating that relying solely on votes from Kisii County, Matiang’i’s home turf, would be inadequate for a presidential bid.
He noted, “Someone running for the presidency cannot be elected based on Kisii votes, Luo votes, Luhya votes, or even Mount Kenya votes,” emphasizing the importance of a broader voter appeal for any presidential candidate. Odinga clarified that he has not received explicit confirmation from Matiang’i regarding his intentions, which he characterized as speculative at this stage.
In summary, Martha Karua has taken a firm stance against Raila Odinga’s dealings with the Kenya Kwanza government, stating that he must choose his allegiance. She underscores the necessity for formal agreements within coercive frameworks to avoid illegal operations. Meanwhile, Odinga is navigating uncertainties regarding his political future and the aspirations of potential candidates, emphasizing the need for nationwide support in presidential campaigns.
Original Source: mwakilishi.com
