Kalonzo’s Ukombozi Alliance Hits Hurdles as Allies Keep Their Distance

Kalonzo Musyoka’s launch of the Ukombozi Alliance has exposed divisions within Kenya’s opposition, with several parties and prominent figures distancing themselves from the new coalition ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The Democratic Congress Party (DCP), whose deputy leader Cleophas Malala has rejected the alliance, says it will pursue its own political path in partnership with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna before engaging with other opposition groups.

Malala’s position echoes earlier remarks by Embakasi North MP James Gakuya, an ally of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who ruled out working with Azimio la Umoja or its successor. 

Other parties have raised procedural and legal questions about the formation of Ukombozi. Augustus Muli of the National Liberal Party has asked the coalition’s leadership and the Registrar of Political Parties to provide documents explaining the rebranding from Azimio to Ukombozi. His request has added to questions over whether the transition was carried out with sufficient consultation and consensus.

Babu Owino of the Mwananchi Party has also indicated that Sifuna’s Linda Mwananchi faction could pursue its own political strategy. It could include presenting Sifuna as a presidential candidate before negotiating with other opposition groups. This raises the possibility of several competing coalition structures developing ahead of the 2027 election.

The absence of several prominent opposition figures at the Ukombozi launch has further highlighted the divisions. Former Justice Minister Martha Karua, who previously described Azimio as a “sunk ship”, did not attend. Narc leader Charity Ngilu was also absent.

Among those who attended were Siaya Governor James Orengo and Azimio secretary-general Caroli Omondi. However, there are indications of competing political interests, particularly given Orengo’s links to Linda Mwananchi.

Kalonzo has meanwhile sought to present himself as a leader committed to democratic principles. Speaking in Siaya, he urged President William Ruto to stop attacking retired President Uhuru Kenyatta over allegations that he has provided financial support to the opposition.

Kalonzo said political campaigns have traditionally depended on networks of supporters and friends rather than family wealth. He also said he would accept the outcome of the 2027 election if it was conducted fairly.

He described the political situation as one in which Kenya was “on the edge of a cliff” and presented the coming election as a test of the country’s democratic institutions. The opposition is now facing a period of negotiations as different leaders and parties consider separate political arrangements. Ukombozi is one emerging centre, while other groupings are developing around Sifuna and allies of Gachagua.