NLP objects to proposed rebranding of Azimio as Ukombozi Alliance

The NLP, a constituent party of Azimio, said it learnt of the proposed changes through public announcements and media reports rather than through formal communication from the coalition leadership.

“The Party is concerned to have learnt of a decision of such fundamental consequence through public announcements and media reports, without prior consultation,” the NLP said in a statement issued on Monday.

The party said it had previously written to the Azimio leadership seeking dialogue on coalition matters but had not received a substantive response.

The NLP has now formally written to the Azimio leadership and the Registrar of Political Parties seeking clarification on the legal and procedural basis of the proposed changes.

It has requested documents including the notice convening the relevant meeting, the agenda, attendance register, certified minutes and resolutions allegedly adopted.

The party is also seeking the provisions of the Coalition Agreement relied upon in making the decision, together with any legal instruments submitted, or intended for submission, to the Registrar of Political Parties.

The NLP argues that changes to the coalition’s name, identity, structure, governance or legal obligations cannot be effected through a public announcement alone.

“A fundamental alteration to its name, identity, structure, governance, assets, liabilities or legal obligations cannot properly be treated as a matter to be effected through a public announcement alone,” the party said.

The party has further raised concerns over the financial and legal implications of any restructuring, noting that Azimio has assets, liabilities, contracts and other legal interests involving its constituent parties.

The NLP said it does not recognise the proposed changes as binding on it unless the procedures set out in the coalition agreement and applicable law are followed.

“Our position is clear and unequivocal: The National Liberal Party does not consent to, and does not recognise as binding upon it, any purported change to the Coalition’s name, identity, structure or legal status unless and until the applicable provisions of the Coalition Agreement and the law have been fully complied with,” it said.

The objection comes as political parties within the Azimio coalition navigate their political arrangements ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Despite its opposition to the proposed changes, the NLP said it remained committed to political cooperation and dialogue.

“The NLP remains committed to lawful political cooperation, dialogue and unity of purpose,” the party said, while insisting that such cooperation must be based on “transparency, good faith, meaningful consultation” and adherence to agreed procedures.

The party said it had reserved its legal and contractual rights and would pursue mechanisms available under the coalition agreement and the law to protect its interests and those of its members.