Azimio Coalition Meeting Ends in Chaos as Internal Tensions Rise

The Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition Parliamentary Group (PG) meeting ended in disorder on Wednesday, July 17, after youth interrupted the press conference just as Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka had begun to present the resolutions.

Odinga had departed earlier for an “important meeting,” leaving Musyoka to convey the coalition’s position. The coalition’s internal dynamics have been further complicated by President William Ruto’s endorsement of a “broad-based government,” reminiscent of a government of national unity. This proposal has elicited mixed reactions within the coalition, with some ODM party members showing receptiveness while others remain wary. During the joint National Executive Committee and PG meeting at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation, the ODM party endorsed the idea of a national dialogue.

This call for a National Convention or Conversation aims to bring together all Kenyans, fostering dialogue and consensus. ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna stressed the importance of inclusivity in this process. The absence of senior ODM leaders including Raila Odinga’s deputies Hassan Joho and Wycliffe Oparanya from the press conference was notable. Meanwhile, the disruption by disgruntled youths at the meeting venue highlights growing tensions within the coalition. These tensions are further exacerbated by the coalition’s unequivocal rejection of participation in the proposed broad-based government with the Kenya Kwanza Coalition.

The Central Management Committee outlines specific preconditions for the National Convention, including compensation for victims of police brutality during recent protests, accountability for officers involved in violence against civilians, national amnesty for those arrested or abducted during protests, and the removal of Nairobi Area Police boss Adamson Bungei from office. Kalonzo Musyoka, in reading the Azimio statement, emphasized the need for a people-driven National Constitutional Convention. This approach is seen as a potential pathway out of the national crisis, provided stakeholders can reach a consensus.