By Violet Auma.
A section of Mount Kenya leaders has strongly opposed the NADCO report, arguing that it prioritizes political power arrangements over the pressing issues affecting ordinary Kenyans.
Nyandarua Senator John Methu, Laikipia Senator John Kinyua, and Kipipiri MP Wanjiku Muhia have urged President William Ruto to subject the report to a referendum, warning that Kenyans will reject it.
“We strongly urge the President to call for a referendum so that he can witness the wrath of Kenyans. No citizen is interested in seats or positions such as that of Prime Minister,” said Senator Methu.
According to them, the report fails to address critical concerns such as the high cost of living, access to affordable fertilizer, and economic empowerment for the common mwananchi. Instead, they argue, the focus has been on creating new political positions that do not benefit the people.
“The President has brought in Raila Odinga to help him implement his manifesto, yet the report does not focus on the issues directly affecting citizens, such as the cost of living, healthcare sector, fertilizer prices, and putting money in the pockets of ordinary Kenyans. Instead, they have only talked about their positions and personal interests,” noted Kipipiri MP Wanjiku Muhia.
Their sentiments come amid rising political tension over the emerging alliance between President Ruto and Azimio leader Raila Odinga. The two leaders, who were on opposing sides in the last general election, have been engaging in talks that could see them work together politically. However, this has caused sharp divisions within the opposition, with key figures feeling betrayed.
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni have publicly criticized Raila over his new ties with Ruto. Kalonzo, who had positioned himself as Raila’s successor in Azimio, sees the coalition talks as a major setback to his 2027 presidential ambitions.
Similarly, Kioni, a strong defender of the Azimio coalition, has accused Raila of abandoning the opposition cause in favor of personal political interests.
“A coalition between Raila and Ruto would effectively sideline opposition voices and allow the ruling party to dictate the composition of crucial institutions such as the IEBC, undermining electoral integrity,” argued Kioni.
As uncertainty looms over the future of the opposition, growing discontent within Azimio and other political factions suggests that any deal between Raila and Ruto will not come without resistance. Meanwhile, pressure continues to mount on President Ruto to address economic concerns raised by citizens rather than focusing on power-sharing arrangements.
With both political and economic frustrations rising, the coming weeks are expected to shape the country’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
