People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua has affirmed her intention to seek the United Opposition’s presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 General Election, while ruling out the possibility of serving as a running mate.
During an interview on Sunday, Karua said her focus remains on securing the coalition’s top ticket, but pledged to support whoever emerges as the flag bearer should she not be selected.
“I will not be a running mate. I will do my best to be that united opposition candidate, but should somebody else be chosen, I am willing to support them without being their running mate,” she said.
Her declaration comes at a time when several opposition leaders have expressed interest in challenging President William Ruto in the next election, setting the stage for what is likely to be a competitive nomination process.
Despite the growing list of contenders, Karua expressed confidence in her chances, saying she was prepared to vigorously campaign for the coalition’s endorsement.
She also emphasized the need for a formal agreement among opposition leaders to guide the nomination process and ensure unity after the selection of a candidate.
“I think that is a question that each of them should answer. I long for the day that we will have a written document as the opposition, rules of the game, which everybody signs committing to abide by those rules we shall have agreed on and to abide by the outcome and to support if you are not the one, support whoever is,” Karua added.
She further revealed that discussions on such a framework are already underway.
“For us to tell Kenyans that it will really happen we need to sign that document. It is prepared but waiting for a retreat. We also need a joint manifesto so that everybody feels like they fit in,” added.
Away from coalition politics, Karua said her party has continued strengthening its structures across the country in preparation for future elections.
“We are up and running with we are calling purple train because it is a move by the party to widen its membership and its candidate base. You cannot hunt for candidates jointly. Although we belong to the united opposition we have taken time to market PLP and increase membership,” she noted.
The question of who will carry the opposition flag in 2027 remains one of the most closely watched issues in Kenyan politics. Besides Karua, other leaders who have publicly shown interest in the presidency include Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
The opposition coalition has, however, faced criticism from political rivals and some observers who have questioned its cohesion and ability to present a unified agenda to voters.
