Martha Karua, the former running mate of Azimio leader Raila Odinga, has made headlines for the first time after missing a crucial meeting called by the opposition leader.
In a statement issued by Philip Etale, the Director of Communication for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, it was revealed that the Azimio leadership convened a consultative meeting with members of the coalition’s Parliamentary Group.
During the meeting held at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation (JOOF) offices, Coalition Leader Raila Odinga and other political leaders reaffirmed the coalition’s commitment to fostering dialogue between the opposition and the government.
The statement also stated that the coalition has chosen to support Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka-led team in the Dialogue Committee.
Among those present were Mr Eugene Wamalwa, the Democratic Action Party (DAP) Kenya Party leader, Mr Opiyo Wandayi, the leader of the Minority Party in the National Assembly, Mr Okong’o Omogeni, the Senator of Nyamira County, and Ms Amina Mnyazi, the Member of Parliament for Malindi.
Mr Etale, in the statement, further said that 65 Members of Parliament (MPs) attended the meeting.
It remains unclear why Ms Karua did not attend the meeting, yet she has been a key player in opposition politics since she was picked as Mr Odinga’s running mate.
Notably absent from the meeting was Ms Karua, whose absence raised questions considering her significant role in opposition politics since being selected as Mr Odinga’s running mate.
Meanwhile, on Monday, July 31, 2023, Robert Alai, the Kileleshwa Member of the County Assembly (MCA), expressed his views on the ODM party’s priorities.
“ODM currently finds value in a coalition with Wiper and DAP-K. Others are donkeys we have to whip to make any impact,” said Mr Alai.
The Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party comprises ODM, Jubilee, Wiper, Narc Kenya, DAP-K, Roots Party, Usawa kwa Wote, and KANU.
The coalition aims to strengthen its presence and unity in the political landscape while addressing issues concerning the opposition and the government.
Despite the absence of Martha Karua, the coalition leadership continues to strategize and work towards their shared goals of promoting dialogue and advancing their vision for a united Kenya.
The coming days will likely reveal further developments in the coalition’s efforts to build a strong and cohesive opposition platform.
