United Opposition to embark on retreat to choose presidential candidate

The United Alternative Government (UAG) coalition has announced plans to convene a retreat bringing together its Principals to deliberate on its leadership structure and chart the way forward, including the process of selecting its presidential flag bearer ahead of the 2027 General Election.

In a statement on Thursday, UAG Co-Convenor Martha Karua dismissed speculation that the coalition had settled on a presidential candidate, saying no decision has been made on the criteria, process or timeline for choosing its flag bearer.

"Consequently, no decision has been made on the process, criteria, or timeline for selecting the coalition's presidential flag bearer," Karua said.

"As Principals and Co-Convenors of the United Alternative Government, we are committed to building a coalition founded on consultation, mutual respect, inclusivity, and fidelity to agreed processes."

Karua revealed that a Technical Committee led by former Agriculture Minister Kipruto Arap Kirwa had completed its work on proposals for formalising the coalition's engagement and would soon present its recommendations to the Principals.

According to the PLP boss, the recommendations will be discussed during a retreat where coalition leaders are also expected to deliberate on a common agenda focusing on democratic renewal, economic transformation and constitutional governance.

"The Committee has now completed substantial work and will shortly present its recommendations to the Principals for consideration and approval at a mutually agreed retreat," she said.

The former Justice Minister acknowledged that members of the coalition and Kenyans at large have the constitutional right to express their preferred presidential candidate, but maintained that the decision on the coalition's flag bearer would only be reached through an agreed consultative process.

"We fully acknowledge the constitutional right of every Kenyan, including members and Principals of the United Alternative Government, to express personal preferences regarding who should ultimately become the coalition's presidential candidate," Karua said.

"However, we equally recognise that the selection of the coalition's flag bearer is one of the most consequential decisions we shall make. It is therefore a matter that must be determined collectively, through an agreed consultative framework and established coalition structures."

Karua urged coalition members and supporters to exercise patience as the alliance finalises its internal processes, saying its immediate priority remains strengthening the coalition while engaging Kenyans on issues affecting their daily lives.

Karua noted that the Technical Committee had consulted both herself and her co-convenor, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, on suitable dates for the retreat, expressing confidence that the meeting would be convened soon.

She said the coalition would communicate its resolutions to Kenyans through its official structures once the Principals conclude their deliberations.