Martha Karua Says She Is Ready to Become Kenya’s Next President

MWEA — People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua has expressed confidence in her bid to become Kenya’s next president as she intensifies her preparations for the 2027 General Election.

Speaking in Mwea on Sunday, Karua said the time had come for Kenya to elect a woman as president, arguing that her experience in government and record in public service make her well suited to lead the country.

The former Justice and Constitutional Affairs and Water Minister in the Mwai Kibaki administration said Kenya needs leadership anchored in integrity and accountability.

“This time, allow a woman to be President of Kenya and divide the national cake, and I am the most suited for the job,” Karua said.

She added that she was ready to work with like-minded leaders who prioritise the interests of the country, insisting that national resources should be managed for the benefit of all Kenyans.

Karua Rules Out Deputy Presidency

Karua has previously ruled out becoming a running mate under the United Opposition coalition, maintaining that she will either seek the presidency or support the coalition's eventual presidential flag bearer.

During an interview on Citizen TV's The Explainer on July 21, Karua said she would respect the coalition's agreed-upon process for selecting its candidate, provided the process follows the rules established by the alliance.

She reiterated that while she would support a candidate selected through a credible process, she had no intention of accepting the position of deputy president.

“I will support the one who is chosen in accordance with the rules we have set. The only thing I will not do is be a running mate,” she said.

Karua also referenced her previous partnership with the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, saying she considered that experience sufficient and was now focused on pursuing the presidency or supporting the coalition's chosen candidate.

Coalition Faces Leadership Test

Karua's position is likely to add pressure to the United Opposition as its senior leaders weigh their options ahead of the 2027 election.

Among the coalition figures seeking influence in the race are Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua, former Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i, former Chief Justice David Maraga and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna of Linda Mwananchi.

With several senior opposition figures positioning themselves for the presidency, the process of identifying a single coalition flag bearer is expected to be a major test of the alliance's unity.

Karua's insistence that she will not serve as a running mate further narrows the coalition's potential options as its leaders negotiate how to consolidate their support ahead of the 2027 General Election.