NLP says it will work with opposition or government, but will not beg

Speaking during a rally at Kitui Stadium, NLP leader Dr Augustus Muli said the party was prepared to negotiate with all political formations but would only enter an alliance that safeguards the interests of the Ukambani region.

"NLP will work with either Opposition or Government. But we are not going to beg. We are going to bargain and fight for our people. We are also willing to go alone," Dr Muli said.

The rally came a month after the party resolved to engage other political parties, including those in government, in pursuit of what it described as the interests of the Kamba community.

Dr Muli said the party would retain its identity and would not align itself unconditionally with any political leader ahead of the 2027 polls.

"Our voice is going to be very important in 2027," he said.

He also confirmed that he would contest the Kitui Central parliamentary seat on the NLP ticket.

While describing Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka as an experienced statesman, Dr Muli questioned whether smaller political parties would receive fair treatment in any opposition coalition.

"Hon. Kalonzo Musyoka is an experienced politician. Despite all his achievements, he has been humiliated by Gachagua and sections of the opposition," he said.

"What about me? If they cannot treat Kalonzo well, I will have no chance at all in the opposition team."

Dr Muli also claimed that previous attempts to engage the Wiper leader had not received a response.

He defended the party's willingness to engage the Government, saying residents of Ukambani continued to expect development despite the country entering the final year before the next General Election.

"We have no problems talking to the Government. Our people want development. We will therefore continue to engage the Government, and even Linda Mwananchi. Tuko tayari kuongea na watu wote for the benefit of our people," he said.

At the end of the meeting, NLP delegates resolved that the party would engage both the Government and the Opposition but would not join any political formation unless the interests of the party and the Ukambani region were guaranteed. They also said the party was prepared to contest the 2027 elections independently if no satisfactory agreement was reached.