Karua Explains Decision to Decline Cabinet Secretary Position Under Uhuru's Government

Martha Karua, leader of the newly rebranded People’s Liberation Party (PLP), has revealed in a recent interview that she declined an offer to join former President Uhuru Kenyatta's Cabinet.

This announcement comes as Karua prepares to launch the PLP, formerly known as Narc Kenya, under a new purple banner, signaling a strategic shift ahead of future elections. Karua, who has been out of government for approximately 12 years, emphasizes that her decision to decline the cabinet position was rooted in her unwavering principles and those of her party. Despite supporting Kenyatta’s re-election bid, she stated that she could not align herself with a government whose ideologies did not resonate with her own.

"Narc Kenya is principled, and we have not joined governments we don’t believe in," Karua affirms, underscoring her commitment to advocating for Kenyans until the PLP achieves political power.

The rebranding of Narc Kenya as the People’s Liberation Party marks a significant moment for Karua, who has been a prominent figure in Kenyan politics for decades. Her shift from the party’s traditional green color to purple symbolizes a fresh start as she seeks to broaden her political appeal.

In addressing the complex landscape of Kenyan politics, Karua acknowledges the necessity of forming coalitions to win elections. Despite past political differences, she defends her current collaboration with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, framing their alliance as a shared commitment to addressing the pressing issues facing Kenyans.

"Riggy G (Rigathi Gachagua) is a Kenyan; he is my brother, just like Ruto is my brother and just like Raila is my brother, and we have parted politically. At this moment we are standing in the same place with Riggy G and other leaders, determined to relieve Kenyans of the pain that is on their backs, and so to that extent, we are allies," Karua says, highlighting their united front in tackling the country’s challenges.

Karua has further signaled her readiness to collaborate with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and other national leaders to drive transformative change in Kenya. While expressing openness to working with Odinga, Karua, known as the "Iron Lady," explicitly states that she would not consider serving as a running mate in the 2027 General Election. Karua emphasizes that her commitment to working with fellow Kenyans extends to any leader dedicated to redeeming and transforming the country for the benefit of all citizens, and it is not limited to Raila.