Martha Karua, the formidable leader of the People's Liberation Party (PLP) and a key figure in the United Opposition, has unequivocally dismissed claims circulating on social media that she is being considered for the prestigious position of National Assembly Speaker. Her recent interview on Ramogi Radio offered a candid clarification, cutting through the noise with characteristic precision.
Karua's dismissal of the viral list was firm and without hesitation. She clarified that the alleged lineup making rounds on various social media platforms possessed no legitimate basis, nor had it received any sanction from the official organs of the United Opposition. For a political figure of Karua's stature, with a distinguished history in public service, such fabrications are a common feature of the pre-election landscape. However, her swift and decisive debunking underscores the opposition's commitment to maintaining a clear and unified message.
A former Member of Parliament who served for an impressive four consecutive terms, Karua made it abundantly clear that her political aspirations no longer involve a return to the legislative chambers in any capacity. "I was in Parliament for four consecutive terms, and therefore I absolutely have no intention of going back to the House in whatever role or capacity," she asserted. Reflecting on her extensive career, which includes a presidential bid in 2012, she added, "I even vied for the presidency in 2012, and I would never ever go back as Speaker or otherwise." Her stance is clear: her legislative chapter is closed, having "played her part" in shaping laws and holding the executive accountable.
Instead, Karua's vision remains fixed on higher national leadership. As a co-convener of the United Opposition coalition alongside Kalonzo Musyoka, her ambitions clearly lie beyond parliamentary roles, hinting strongly at a continued pursuit of the nation's top office. This focus on national leadership underscores her commitment to influencing policy and governance at the highest level, positioning her as a central figure in the opposition's strategy for 2027.
Past her personal aspirations, she also took the opportunity to discredit the alleged 2027 opposition lineup, emphasizing its fabricated nature and the complete lack of agreement among coalition principals. "That lineup is just someone’s opinion. If there had been a genuine process to come up with one, we would have been involved. I am a co-convener of the United Opposition. Something of that magnitude cannot be done behind our backs," she remarked with conviction. She stressed that any official opposition lineup must authentically reflect the strengths and contributions of individual leaders, rather than being dictated by sensational social media posts or speculative political narratives.
Karua disclosed their ambitious plan to field a single candidate for every elective seat in the upcoming polls, not just the presidency. "We are not only focusing on the presidency. The United Opposition will front a candidate for every seat that will be contested in Kenya, from the MCA level to the presidency," she stated. This comprehensive approach aims to consolidate their strength against the ruling Kenya Kwanza alliance, presenting a unified front across all levels of governance.
