Martha Karua Insists Ruto Must Quit 2027 Race to Work Together

People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua has outlined a clear condition for working with President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 General Election. In an interview on K24 TV on August 25, 2026, Karua stated that any cooperation with Ruto hinges on his decision not to seek re-election and to accept that his presidency will be limited to one term.

Karua Cites Trust Issues and Leadership Failure

Karua described Ruto’s tenure as a "spectacular failure," emphasizing that trust remains a major barrier between them. She argued that Kenyans deserve new leadership after four years under the current administration and urged Ruto to support a transition of power.

• Karua emphasized that Ruto is "a Kenyan like all of us," but cooperation requires him to relinquish ambitions for a second term.
• She stressed that no individual should consider themselves indispensable in steering the country.
• Karua has consistently promoted the principle of serving only one presidential term, aiming to focus on foundational reforms rather than prolonged power.

Opposition Unity Ahead of 2027

Karua’s remarks follow the signing of a unity pact by opposition leaders under the United Alternative Government coalition. The agreement, made at Windsor Hotel in Kiambu County, commits opposition principals to present a single presidential candidate and rally behind them to challenge the Kenya Kwanza administration.

Karua has emerged as a vocal advocate for unity based on integrity, competence, and a shared national vision, highlighting that defeating Ruto requires more than just selecting an opposition candidate.

Looking Forward

While Karua acknowledges Ruto remains a Kenyan regardless of office, she is firm that trust issues must be addressed before any political collaboration. The opposition’s ability to maintain unity and settle on a single candidate remains a key question as Kenya approaches the 2027 election.