Leaders of 10 political parties have pledged to promote issue-based politics and uphold the democratic ideals associated with the late opposition leader Raila Odinga as Kenya prepares for the 2027 General Election.
The leaders made the commitment on Tuesday during a visit to Mama Ida Odinga’s Nairobi residence, where they paid tribute to the former opposition chief and reflected on his contribution to Kenya’s struggle for democracy and constitutional reform.
The delegation was led by National Liberal Party (NLP) leader Augustus Muli and Political Parties Liaison Committee (PPLC) chairman Evans Misati.
Muli said the gathering was an opportunity to celebrate Raila’s contribution to Kenya’s democratic journey rather than focus solely on mourning his death.
“Baba died last year. The time for mourning is over. Today is for celebration,” Muli said.
Leaders call for politics beyond ethnicity
The parties said they want the 2027 political contest to focus more on issues affecting ordinary Kenyans and less on ethnic mobilisation and political hostility.
Misati, speaking on behalf of the participating parties, said their agenda would centre on employment, the cost of living, healthcare, education, agriculture and youth empowerment.
“Kenyans deserve solutions, not insults. We reject tribal politics, incitement and violence as the country heads to the 2027 elections,” Misati said.
The leaders said they viewed Raila’s legacy as closely tied to the expansion of democratic space, constitutionalism and political pluralism.
They argued that the best way to honour his contribution would be to strengthen democratic institutions and promote policies that respond to the needs of citizens.
10 parties join Raila tribute
The meeting brought together representatives from the United Democratic Party (UDP), United Progressive Alliance (UPA), United People’s Forum (UPF), Party of Peace and Order Kenya (PPOK), Kenya Patriotic Party (KPP), National Unity Party of Equality and Unity (NUPEU), Liberal Party of Kenya (LPK), Alliance for Real Change Kenya (ARCK), People’s Green Party (PGP) and National Liberal Party (NLP).
The leaders also recalled the role played by Mama Ida during Kenya’s second liberation struggle.
Kenya Patriotic Party leader Dick Kamau described Mama Ida as an important link between pro-democracy activists who were detained in Kenya and those who were forced into exile.
“You were the bridge that kept the struggle alive. That sacrifice must never be forgotten,” Kamau told Mama Ida.
Focus shifts to 2027 political agenda
The parties said the approaching 2027 elections presented an opportunity for political leaders to engage Kenyans on practical solutions rather than personal attacks.
They pledged to campaign peacefully and encourage political competition based on competing policies and development programmes.
The leaders also said political parties should work towards strengthening democratic institutions and protecting constitutional rights as part of preserving the legacy associated with Raila.
The visit ended with prayers for the Odinga family, with the leaders reaffirming their commitment to peaceful and democratic political engagement ahead of the 2027 polls.
