Senator Dan Maanzo has reaffirmed Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya Alliance’s position as a vibrant and registered political coalition, dismissing speculation about its disintegration. Speaking during Citizen TV’s Day Break show on Thursday morning, Maanzo declared that Azimio remains active and intact, with plans to expand its base and rebrand to accommodate future political shifts.
“Azimio is still intact as a registered coalition in this country and will remain so. However, in the future, we want to build a bigger coalition, invite more partners, or rebrand,” Maanzo said. His remarks come amidst growing debate over the coalition’s relevance following the 2022 General Election and Raila Odinga’s potential move to the African Union Commission (AUC).
The Senator acknowledged that the coalition has faced challenges since the election but maintained that its core principles remain unshaken. “Azimio’s foundation is strong. It is built on shared values of unity and governance reforms. These ideals will guide our next steps, whether through expansion or strategic rebranding,” he stated.
Raila’s Role in Azimio’s Longevity
Maanzo also touched on Raila Odinga’s pivotal role in Kenyan politics, highlighting his influence within Azimio and beyond. He emphasized that the coalition’s strength partly stems from Raila’s leadership and national standing, which continues to shape the political discourse.
“The Ruto government is hanging on to Raila, who is politically in charge of this country. The President should make sure Raila gets the AUC chairmanship,” Maanzo noted, suggesting that Raila’s elevation to the AU could open opportunities for a new generation of leaders while maintaining Azimio’s ideals on a broader platform.
Senator Hillary Sigei, who shared the panel with Maanzo, supported the idea, arguing that Raila’s potential role in the AU would empower young leaders within Azimio and beyond. “If Raila is in the AU, we young leaders will gain an opportunity and an additional support base,” Sigei said.
Navigating Kenya’s Political Landscape
Maanzo highlighted the coalition’s adaptability in a dynamic political environment, pointing to ongoing efforts to address issues such as corruption and high taxation. “Azimio remains a voice for the people. While political alliances evolve, our focus on governance and accountability does not change,” he asserted.
Diana Gichengo, Executive Director of The Institute for Social Accountability (TISA), however, critiqued the political class, accusing leaders of prioritizing personal interests. “The political class looks out for each other rather than the citizens. Kenyans are united against corruption, high taxation, and theft,” she said. Gichengo added that the church has become a beacon of hope for many Kenyans, filling the gap left by political leaders.
Plans for Coalition Expansion
Looking ahead, Maanzo stressed the coalition’s intention to broaden its support by inviting more partners and considering a fresh identity. “The future of Azimio lies in its ability to remain relevant and inclusive. We are open to building bridges and creating a larger political platform that represents the interests of all Kenyans,” he said.
The Senator’s remarks underline Azimio’s determination to remain a significant force in Kenyan politics, even as questions about its future persist. With Raila Odinga’s potential move to the AU and plans for expansion on the table, the coalition seems poised to navigate the evolving political terrain strategically.
