Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo has dismissed claims that Azimio Coalition is on its deathbed following plans by some affiliate parties to pull out of the outfit.
Speaking on Thursday, November 28, 2024, the outspoken senator maintained that the pre-election coalition is still intact despite Martha Karua announcing plans to withdraw Narc Kenya from the arrangement.
Maanzo argued that Azimio would cease to exist if all affiliate political parties withdrew, leaving only one party.
Rebranding
Despite claims of fallout within Azimio’s ranks, Maanzo noted the coalition is mulling rebranding or even adopting another name. The senator indicated that the rebrand would give the political outfit a fresh impetus ahead of the 2027 polls.
Further, Maanzo who is a member of the Wiper Party, added that Azimio would court new partners and members in the move aimed at giving the outfit a fresh political touch.
“We want to build a bigger coalition. We could rebrand or give it another name. We will invite more partners and we know Kenyans are with us,” Maanzo stated.
“When ODM sent a few people to government, the party structure in parliament remained because Azimio had not been dissolved,” he insisted.
His assurance on the fate of Azimio comes days after DAP-K led by former Defence Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa announced that the party had initiated the process of exiting the Azimio coalition.
Speaking during a national delegates meeting held in Webuye on November 3, 2024, Wamalwa said they can no longer remain in the coalition since their ODM party counterparts are in government.
“As DAP, we can no longer maintain a relationship with those who are not like-minded. Those aiding Ruto in introducing more taxes to Kenyans are not aligned with our values. When John Mbadi brings back those taxes, it won’t just be Ruto’s responsibility; our members will be complicit,” he stated.
