Matiang'i, Peter Munya Join Azimio Top Council

Azimio la Umoja–One Kenya Coalition has appointed Jubilee Deputy Party Leader Fred Matiang’i to its National Council as part of a wider leadership reorganisation announced at a meeting on Monday, 3 August. 

Former Meru Governor Peter Munya and former Embu Senator Lenny Kivuti were also named to the coalition’s top decision-making body. Coalition Secretary General Caroli Omondi said the appointments form part of a broader restructuring aimed at strengthening Azimio’s leadership and expanding its political base. 

He said the National Council had approved plans to reorganise the coalition’s structures and increase its membership ahead of a planned rebranding exercise. The meeting also invited the Democratic Action Party–Kenya (DAP-K), one of Azimio’s founding members, to rejoin the coalition. 

Party leader Eugene Wamalwa said DAP-K would return once it completed its internal approval process. Azimio also invited three other parties to join the coalition: the Democratic Party, led by former National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi, Umoja Na Maendeleo, and the People’s Democratic Party. 

The move is part of efforts to bring together more opposition parties ahead of the 2027 General Election. Coalition leader Kalonzo Musyoka said he had been tasked with engaging other political groups as part of the rebranding process. 

He said discussions are under way with Rigathi Gachagua’s Democracy for Citizens Party, Martha Karua’s People’s Liberation Party, and the United Green Movement associated with former Chief Justice David Maraga. Kalonzo also expressed confidence that the Linda Mwananchi movement, which is seeking registration as a political party, could eventually become part of the coalition. He said its inclusion would further broaden Azimio’s political reach.

The changes mark an important stage in Azimio’s efforts to rebuild after the 2022 General Election. The coalition was formed to support Raila Odinga’s presidential campaign but has faced questions about its unity since the election.

Kalonzo also rejected claims that retired President Uhuru Kenyatta is directing the coalition’s activities. He said Azimio’s current leadership is making its own decisions as it works to expand and reorganise the coalition.