After Raila, opposition fortunes lie in Karua

ODM leader Raila Odinga and Narc-Kenya leader Martha Karua at past rally. [File, Standard]

This week, it was refreshing to see Narc-Kenya leader Martha Karua deliver her ‘State of the Nation’ address, fiercely taking the government to task on human rights, graft and devolution. 

Accompanied by former Trade minister Mukhisa Kituyi, Ms Karua’s statements were met with huge public approval, online and on the streets. For once, Kenyans thought the ‘opposition is back’. 

Before 2010, the public believed that a new constitution would fix their problems. However, less than two decades into the new dispensation, the country’s progressive supreme law has become a double-edged sword of sorts. 

Courtesy of its provisions, the Opposition is crippled and stingless in many aspects. Comparing the current situation with the old order, most Kenyans have more and more come to appreciate that a strong and vibrant opposition is the bedrock of a functioning democracy.

Today, the fattest elephant in the room is the ambiguity in the political landscape.

To use William Ruto’s words in 2022 when he was deputy president, “we’ve a mongrel system that makes it hard to distinguish between government and the opposition.” 

Amid the blurring of lines since the naming of the UDA-ODM Cabinet, Azimio leader Raila Odinga’s retirement (he is eyeing the AU Commission chairmanship) has opened a fresh chapter. The vacuum left by his exit raises critical questions that aren’t entirely new. 

Will Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka or Narc Kenya leader Martha Karua step up to the task? Can they match Raila’s resilience and sway, and effectively challenge Ruto in 2027?

But again why is Mr Musyoka, the new self-declared team leader, struggling to put the Azimio house in order and how about his lack of visibility and bearing? 

Why is he huffing and puffing each time Kenyans expect him to face Kenya Kwanza head-on? Truth is, there’s fatigue around Mr Musyoka’s bid. Under him, Azimio is more ‘crises-ed out’ than ever. He should call it a day. Ms Karua’s latest attempt to fill the void, and the resultant support by many observers, signals an outright disapproval of Mr Musyoka. 

The ‘Iron Lady’ makes decisions and stands by them. However, as discussions about the future of the opposition rage, it’s clear that its leadership won’t be inherited but earned through consistent action and vision. Ms Karua fits the bill. She must step up to stop the opposition’s present free fall.

For Mr Musyoka, he must rebrand now — for himself and his Wiper party starting with what he represents in the evolving political landscape.

He must expand his appeal outside the Eastern bloc, stop woolgathering about endorsements (it’s my turn!) and shake off unhelpful allies who won’t translate into popular support. 

Granted, many in Azimio believe the opposition needs fresh leadership. The old guard, no matter how experienced, will face an uphill battle going forward.

The political tides are shifting, and those still holding on to outdated political tactics will likely struggle. Mr Robert Mbui, Mr Enoch Wambua and other cheerleaders must work hard to help the former vice president gain traction. 

To those interested in leading the opposition, they must revise their wish list. Politics of ethnicity has lost its grip. Voters want leaders who can articulate compelling ideas, not just those who mobilise along sectarian lines.

The opposition must offer alternative policies, and present constructive critique of the Kenya Kwanza administration no matter the odds. 

Here is my free caution to the new opposition leadership after Raila. Let them be aware that a strong opposition isn’t just about deal-cutting, calling for demos or addressing press conferences—it’s about providing a voice for the voiceless and ensuring that democracy remains alive. 

Whoever takes up the mantle must understand they have a responsibility not just to their party, stomachs and coalitions, but to the country. The health of our democracy depends on a robust and effective opposition. The ball is in Karua’s and Kalonzo’s courts. Godspeed. 

-The writer is a communications practitioner. X:@markoloo