Wiper Patriotic Front spokesperson Ndegwa Njiru has emphasized the need for political parties and coalitions to build stronger institutions. These institutions should hold governments accountable throughout a president's term, rather than dissolving after elections. Njiru made these remarks during an interview with Radio Generation on September 30, 2026. He stressed that political alliances should be based on institutions, the Constitution, and the rule of law, rather than individual politicians.
Njiru argued that Kenya's discussion on political coalitions should go beyond election strategies. As political formations prepare for the August 10, 2027 General Election, he suggested that coalitions should continue to play a role after elections. This would enable parties to retain enough strength to question and check leaders who emerge from their ranks. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has set August 10, 2027, as the date for the next General Election.
Kenya has a history of forming political alliances around elections. The National Rainbow Coalition (NARC) brought together opposition parties in 2002, defeating KANU and electing Mwai Kibaki as president. Similar alliances, such as the Coalition for Reforms and Democracy (CORD) in 2013 and the National Super Alliance (NASA) in 2017, have been formed in later elections. The 2022 election saw parties regroup under major political formations like Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya and Kenya Kwanza Alliance.
Njiru cited the example of South Africa's African National Congress, which exercises control over leaders who rise to power through its political structures. He argued that Kenyan parties should establish similar internal systems to demand accountability from their leaders, including those who become president. This would enable parties to recall their leaders if necessary, ensuring checks and balances on presidential power.
Njiru emphasized that coalitions should not expire when a president is sworn in. Instead, they should continue to provide checks on political power. He referenced Article 1 of the Constitution, which states that sovereign power belongs to the people, and Article 37, which guarantees the right to peaceably assemble and present petitions to public authorities. These provisions, Njiru argued, underscore the importance of strong political parties and coalitions.
With the 2027 election approaching, Njiru stressed that Kenya needs parties and coalitions with robust structures. These structures should enable them to operate beyond election campaigns and continue providing checks on political power after leaders take office. Njiru's remarks come as political negotiations and coalition-building intensify ahead of the 2027 election.
The Office of the Registrar of Political Parties currently lists Azimio and Kenya Kwanza as registered coalition political parties. As the election draws near, President William Ruto has confirmed plans for a Kenya Kwanza-ODM coalition, while opposition parties continue to hold talks on possible alliances. Njiru's call for lasting coalitions and stronger institutions is likely to resonate with Kenyans seeking more effective governance and accountability.
Key points
- Njiru advocates for political coalitions based on institutions, the Constitution, and the rule of law.
- Coalitions should continue to play a role after elections to hold leaders accountable.
- Kenyan parties should establish internal systems to demand accountability from their leaders.
