Karua, Kioni, and Wairia at the Forefront of Mount Kenya’s Political Battle

The political arena of Mount Kenya is witnessing an intense struggle for control over the Azimio movement, with former governor Mwangi Wa Iria, Nark Kenya party leader Martha Karua, and Jubilee party secretary general Jeremiah Kioni leading the charge.

Once instrumental in rallying support for Raila Odinga’s presidential endeavors in the region, Karua, Kioni, and Wairia now find themselves entangled in a complex and contentious quest for dominance.

Recent shifts have seen notable defections from Azimio to back the Kenya Kwanza government, leaving Karua, Kioni, and Wa Iria as the primary faces of Azimio within Mount Kenya.

However, fractures within the coalition are emerging as personal aspirations clash with collective objectives.

The discord within Azimio became apparent after Raila Odinga’s reconciliation with President William Ruto, leaving Karua and Kioni dissatisfied and prompting them to pursue their own political agendas.

This discontent culminated in the announcement of the Limuru III conference, scheduled for April 19th, indicating a potential fracture within the coalition.

Former Murang’a governor Mwangi WA Iria’s absence from the strategy meeting at Fiesta hotel in Ruaka underscored the deepening divisions within Azimio.

Instead, Wa Iria has aligned himself with other political figures such as Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, and Gideon Moi, signaling a shift in allegiance away from Karua and Kioni.

Meanwhile, Wairia’s vigorous campaigning, marked by numerous billboards bearing his image and his party’s slogan, “USAWA kwa Wote,” suggests a concerted effort to position himself for the 2027 presidential race.

Rumors speculate that he may seek to deputize Kalonzo Musyoka or Gideon Moi if Raila Odinga opts out of the presidency, underscoring Wairia’s clear political ambitions.

Political analysts believe Wairia’s efforts to court support from other Azimio member parties, along with strategic alliances with key political figures, indicate a calculated bid for the presidency in the coming years.

They argue that recent developments, including a meeting hosted by Gideon Moi that excluded Martha Karua and Jeremiah Kioni, signify a realignment of political forces.

Kiambu Senator Karungo WA Thang’wa cautioned against premature campaigning, stressing the importance of post-election recovery.

He emphasized that despite mounting tensions and early political maneuvering, the battle for Azimio control in Mount Kenya is far from over.

Martha Karua’s recent response to Kalonzo Musyoka’s claim that she is not a viable candidate for the 2027 presidential race highlighted conflicting political ambitions. Karua advised Musyoka to focus on promoting his candidacy, asserting that ultimately, it is the voters who decide the most suitable leader.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua warned against engaging in petty succession politics that could divide the country, urging leaders like Jeremiah Kioni and Martha Karua to consult with him regarding the alleged planned Limuru III Conference.

Asserting his position as a senior politician in the Mount Kenya region, Gachagua stressed the importance of unity and expressed readiness to discuss regional issues regardless of political affiliations.

Gatanga MP Edward Muriu called on Mount Kenya leaders to shun divisive politics and support the current administration, emphasizing the paramount importance of unity for the sake of the people.