The once-powerful Azimio coalition, which nearly defeated President William Ruto in the 2022 elections, is on the verge of unraveling as key leaders explore the formation of a new political alliance ahead of the 2027 elections.
Kalonzo Musyoka’s Wiper party and Eugene Wamalwa’s DAP-Kenya are set to leave the opposition coalition, as discussions about a potential political alliance with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua gain momentum. The leaders are aiming to establish a new political formation as early as next year to challenge Ruto’s re-election bid.
The growing rift follows tensions over a potential deal between President Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga, as well as Gachagua’s impeachment, which has triggered realignments within the political landscape. Both Gachagua and Azimio leaders feel betrayed by their respective political partners.
Kalonzo’s allies have revealed plans to form a new coalition by the end of this year, with Makueni MP Daniel Maanzo—one of Kalonzo’s close allies—stating that the new alliance will be in place by Christmas. He emphasized that the coalition would include key political figures from across the country, including the Mt. Kenya region, and would be ready to face Ruto in 2027.
Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi, another Kalonzo ally, described the new political vehicle as something “bigger than Azimio,” promising broad-based membership, including notable figures from Mt. Kenya. “We want every Kenyan to be part of the new coalition, including Gachagua,” he said.
Gachagua, who feels sidelined by his former boss, is reportedly considering joining forces with Kalonzo and other leaders to form a formidable alliance for the 2027 election. He recently assured his supporters that he will soon provide direction for Mt. Kenya, signaling a potential collaboration with Kalonzo.
This shift comes on the heels of Martha Karua’s Narc Kenya party exiting Azimio, as well as indications that former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s Jubilee and Peter Munya’s PNU may also break away. Kalonzo and Eugene have both confirmed they are on their way out of the coalition, with Eugene stating that a new political vehicle could be ready by early 2025.
Last week, Eugene’s DAP-K resolved to withdraw from Azimio, citing betrayal by other parties, especially in light of the apparent political deal between ODM and Ruto’s UDA. Eugene expressed frustration with the direction of Azimio, especially regarding policies such as increased taxes, which he argued contradicted his party’s values.
As political alignments continue to shift, Gachagua has expressed his determination to remain in politics, with allies urging him to team up with Kalonzo and other like-minded leaders. The emerging alliance is expected to present a strong challenge to President Ruto in the 2027 election, with Kalonzo likely to be their candidate for president.
