NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 14 — The National Liberal Party (NLP) has declared it is willing to work with either the Opposition or Government ahead of the 2027 General Election, but will not beg for political accommodation.
Speaking at a rally at Kitui Stadium attended by more than 5,000 supporters, NLP leader Augustus Muli said the party was open to negotiations with all sides but would only join a political formation that respects the interests of Ukambani.
“NLP will work with either Opposition or Government. But we are not going to beg. We are going to bargain and fight for our people. We are also willing to go alone,” Muli declared.
The rally came a month after NLP resolved to engage political parties, including the Government, in pursuit of what it described as the interests of the Kamba community.
Dr Muli said NLP would neither surrender its identity nor blindly follow any politician ahead of the 2027 elections, insisting that the party intended to emerge as an independent bargaining force.
“Our voice is going to be very important in 2027,” he said.
Dr Muli also confirmed that he will seek the Kitui Central parliamentary seat in 2027 on the NLP ticket.
“If they can humiliate Kalonzo, what about me?”
Muli said NLP respects Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka as a senior and experienced statesman, but expressed concern over what he described as the treatment of the former Vice-President by sections of the Opposition and other political actors.
“Hon. Kalonzo Musyoka is an experienced politician. Despite all his achievements, he has been humiliated by Gachagua and sections of the opposition,” he said.
“What about me? If they cannot treat Kalonzo well, I will have no chance at all in the opposition team,” he added.
His remarks drew cheers and ululations from the crowd.
Dr Muli said attempts to engage the Wiper leader had not received a response.
Muli said engagement with the Government should not be interpreted as surrender, arguing that residents need development with about a year remaining before the 2027 General Election.
“We have no problems talking to the Government. Our people want development. We will therefore continue to engage the Government, and even Linda Mwananchi. Tuko tayari kuongea na watu wote (We are ready to talk to everyone) for the benefit of our people,” he said.
NLP delegates resolved that the party would work with either the Opposition or Government but would not seek political accommodation at the expense of its interests.
“NLP will work with either Opposition or Government, but will not beg to be accepted. We are willing to go alone if our interests and those of Ukambani are not secured,” the resolution stated.
