Some residents of Marsabit County have called on Kenya’s opposition leaders to set aside their differences and speak with one voice ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The residents say opposition parties need to come together under one coalition with a shared agenda and position to effectively challenge the ruling party in the polls.
They also urged the leaders to begin consultations early and agree on who will fly the coalition’s flag in the 2027 presidential race.
According to Frankline Mathenge, failure to agree on a single candidate could split the opposition vote and weaken their chances of winning.
He added that the choice of a presidential candidate should be based on ability, integrity, experience, and the capacity to unite Kenyans regardless of ethnicity, religion or political affiliation.
Ms. Mary Ndanu, a resident, urged opposition leaders to prioritize the interests of Kenyans and present clear policies and strategies to address national challenges, including the high cost of living, unemployment and lack of economic opportunities.
At the same time, they called on voters to carefully assess political promises and make decisions based on policies and track records as the country heads to the 2027 General Election.
Earlier today, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i described efforts to unite Kenya’s opposition ahead of the 2027 general election as a difficult and lengthy process.
He however dismissed emerging differences among opposition leaders as normal political disagreements.
Speaking in an interview in Nairobi, Matiang’i said forming a political alliance or coalition government is never an easy undertaking, arguing that bringing together leaders with different political interests, views and ambitions requires patience and sustained negotiations.
“I am one of the leaders who have said before that the public, leaders and especially the media need to contribute to balancing the conversation among opposition leaders rather than putting too much focus on the person who will fly the flag,” Matiang’i said.
