Azimio Coalition on the Brink: Parties Threaten Exit Over Controversial IEBC Panel Shake-Up
Political tension is brewing within the Azimio la Umoja coalition after several parties threatened to withdraw over the controversial removal of Dr. Augustus Kyalo Muli’s name from the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) selection panel. Muli, who had been elected by 16 parties within the coalition to represent Azimio on the crucial panel, was replaced by Dr. Koki in what many coalition members describe as an unjust move.
According to a statement from the National Liberal Party (NLP), Muli was lawfully chosen to represent Azimio in the IEBC selection panel. Omondi K’oyoo ,secretary general for the NLP, voiced strong disapproval over the decision to replace Kyalo Muli, stating, “Dr. Kyalo Muli was elected through a fair and democratic process within the coalition, and any attempt to replace him undermines the unity and integrity of our collective.”
The IEBC selection panel plays a significant role in shaping the electoral landscape of Kenya, making it crucial for the coalition to present a representative who can safeguard its interests. The sudden replacement of Dr. Kyalo Muli has raised concerns that internal disputes could weaken Azimio’s influence within the electoral process.
The incident has led to rising discontent within Azimio, with some parties accusing the leadership of sidelining their input in key decisions. A number of these parties have threatened to withdraw from the coalition if their concerns are not addressed, creating a crisis that could potentially fracture the opposition alliance.
As the Azimio leadership scrambles to contain the situation, the future of the coalition hangs in the balance. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the leadership can resolve this internal conflict and restore unity among its members, or whether the coalition risks splintering ahead of the next electoral cycle.
For now, the IEBC selection process remains a contentious issue, with all eyes on the Azimio leadership to provide a resolution that satisfies the disgruntled factions within the coalition. A such actions undermines the unity and integrity of our collective.
