Azimio Parties Seek ODM’s Ouster Over Ruto Alliance

The Azimio La Umoja coalition’s affiliated parties are now advocating for the expulsion of the ODM Party from their alliance following Raila Odinga’s decision to enter into a partnership with President William Ruto’s administration.

PNU, Jubilee, and DAP-K have disclosed that a critical meeting, summoned by Azimio’s chair, ex-President Uhuru Kenyatta, is on the horizon with the aim of deliberating on the coalition’s path forward. The objective is to identify strategies that would enable the coalition to monitor and hold the Kenya Kwanza government accountable more effectively.

During a religious gathering in Kirinyaga on a Sunday, Kalonzo Musyoka, the leader of the Wiper Party, commented, “President William Ruto is now running an unconstitutional government following the recent Gen Z protests.” He highlighted the democratic freedom of alignment either with the opposition or the government while also critiquing the current administration for its foundation on the sacrifices of protesting youth demanding improved governance.

Jeremiah Kioni, the Jubilee Party’s Secretary General, criticized the ODM for its contradictory stance, which he argues violates the principles of the 2010 constitution. “The broad-based government is meant to continue to oppress Kenyans since President Ruto has secured more people from the opposition,” he added, noting the misuse of ex-President Uhuru’s name by some leaders for self-validation.

Eugene Wamalwa, the DAP-K leader, announced that the Azimio NEC is set to meet this week to communicate significant upcoming changes to the public. He pointed out the urging of Kenyans to support the Kenya Kwanza government post-ODM’s merger with the Ruto administration.

Among other attendees at the church service were Githunguri MP Gathoni wa Muchomba and ex-Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu. Following Raila Odinga’s gesture of offering significant positions within Ruto’s cabinet to his close associates, such as Hassan Joho, John Mbadi, Wycliffe Oparanya, and Opiyo Wandayi, evident divisions have emerged within the Azimio coalition.