Azimio leaders oppose plan to handpick 2027 flagbearer

Addressing the media on Tuesday, the leaders said the coalition must embrace an open, transparent, and consultative process in choosing its presidential candidate if it hopes to remain united ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The leaders cautioned that any attempt to handpick a candidate behind closed doors would amount to imposing a “boardroom candidate” on the coalition, a move they said risks alienating key stakeholders and grassroots supporters.

Reports have indicated that a retreat was being planned to determine Azimio’s next standard bearer, but the dissenting leaders insisted that such a critical decision cannot be left to a small group of insiders.

National Liberal Party (NLP) Secretary General Omondi K’Oyoo urged Kalonzo to abandon what he described as exclusionary tactics and instead convene all coalition partners for an inclusive discussion.

“A boardroom candidate remains a closed-circle candidate,” said K’Oyoo, adding that the coalition should not repeat political mistakes that could weaken its chances against President William Ruto in 2027.

NLP Party Leader Dr Augustus Kyalo Muli echoed the same concerns, saying the coalition must prioritize inclusivity and consensus in selecting its flagbearer.

“We request that you shelve that plan, if indeed it exists, and give room to all parties and participants in this critical process,” said Dr Muli. “A boardroom candidate remains a closed-circle candidate, but we require a participatory process that births an all-inclusive candidate for the coalition.”

Another coalition figure, Saulo Busolo, warned that Azimio’s credibility as a democratic opposition outfit would be undermined if it resorts to secrecy in deciding its future leadership.

He argued that a secretive retreat could erode trust among supporters and trigger unnecessary tensions within the coalition at a time when unity is crucial.