There are rumours that the gargantuan Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition is falling apart. The rumour mongers are saying Kenya’s Ark that is supposed to protect the millions of us from drowning in the political hurricane of bad leadership, high cost of living, defective electoral regime, loss of political party democracy and independence, and skewed revenue allocation is crashing down.
This is because of the House of Babel nature the talks at Bomas, and the results of the National Dialogue Committee sittings, adopted towards their end.
While at the start, and as they progressed, the main line of division was clearly between the two sides in the talks- President William Ruto and his Kenya Kwanza’s messengers against those of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and his Azimio; the peddlers of rumours now say some from Raila’s side started flip-flopping leading to cracks in the coalition.
But the country’s doomsayers seemed to get a real big kick after the Nadco concluded its deliberations, after the hot storm in the 100 plus sittings with above-average allowances for the 10 messengers and their eight technical subordinates and fitting members of the secretariat, and after the final report has been presented to the real masters.
The real orgasm for the rumour mongers has, however, hit the crescendo after the report received the acceptance of both Ruto and Raila.
The millers of wicked imagination are saying players in Azimio, albeit not equal and not all of them are pulling in different directions that may see the Azimio rope cut. They say that though Raila is comfortable with what his lieutenants achieved during the talks, a few both outside and inside the team he sent are dissatisfied and are asking for more.
On the outside, the rumour mongers say Azimio chairman Uhuru Kenyatta is so dissatisfied with the provisions of the Nadco report, he does not want the coalition he chairs to be associated with it any way.
We are also hearing that Raila’s running mate in the 2022 presidential race Martha Karua thinks the document is a fraud and its recommendations a con against not only Azimio but the all Kenyans and, for that reason, she would like to be partners with anyone owning it.
Now, I am calling those pointing at a fall-out in the coalition rumour mongers for two reasons. The first is factual and the second is selfish and wishful aspiration.
On the first reason for labelling those peddling the gospel of a spilt in Azimio rumour mongers is that none of the top officials has confirmed the centre is not holding. Not Baba, not Mama Martha, not Uncle Kalonzo Musyoka and definitely not one and only Uhuru. These are Azimio, and when they, and only they, say the house is no more, it is no more. So far, I have not heard or read them say it is.
The second reason, the wishful one, is a split in Azimio is just not good for the coalition as it makes its membership vulnerable to defeat by their competitors as they weaker divided that unified. Most importantly, the entire country is worse off with a divided, uncoordinated weak Opposition.
In the dynamic landscape of Kenyan politics, the Azimio leaders find themselves at a critical juncture where unity is not just a choice but a necessity. The call for a united Opposition movement is not merely a political strategy but a clarion call for a better Kenya. As the nation navigates through challenges and strives for progress, the unity of the coalition leaders stands as a linchpin for a brighter future.
First and foremost, a united front of Azimio leaders is essential to foster a cohesive and effective Opposition. In the face of a formidable ruling party, unity among opposition forces becomes the bedrock upon which a resilient and powerful alternative can be built. A fractured opposition risks diluting its message, confusing the electorate, and ultimately jeopardising the very foundation of a democratic society.
Moreover, a united Azimio presents a compelling narrative of inclusivity and diversity. Kenya is a nation rich in ethnic, cultural, and social diversity. By showcasing a united front, Azimio leaders can send a powerful message that transcends tribal lines and regional divides. A diverse and inclusive opposition movement can resonate with the people, offering a vision of national unity that stands in stark contrast to divisive politics.
A united Opposition also ensures a more robust and thorough scrutiny of government policies and actions. With different leaders bringing unique perspectives and expertise to the table, the Azimio coalition can effectively hold the ruling party accountable. This scrutiny is vital for a thriving democracy, as it ensures that decisions are made with the best interests of the people in mind, and potential abuses of power are checked.
Furthermore, a united front provides a sense of stability and confidence to the electorate. In a political landscape often marred by uncertainty, a cohesive Azimio coalition offers a viable alternative, assuring the public that there is a well-organised and capable group ready to address their concerns and champion their interests.
The power of a united Opposition is not just confined to the political realm but also extends to the economic and social spheres as well. A stable and united political front is more likely to attract investment, both domestic and international. Investors seek stability and predictability, and a cohesive Azimio leadership sends a positive signal that Kenya is on a path of progress, enhancing the nation's economic prospects.
Clearly, the imperative for Azimio leaders to stay united is not a mere political manoeuvre but a strategic necessity for the well-being and progress of Kenya.
A united Opposition movement stands as a beacon of hope, symbolising a commitment to democratic values, inclusivity, and accountability. As the nation looks towards the future, a united Azimio leadership paves the way for a Kenya that is stronger, more resilient and on the path to prosperity, Nadco and its report notwithstanding.
I hope all the rumours about a split stay just that. Rumours.
The writer is a political commentator