Following extensive internal discussions, the Party of National Unity (PNU) has reversed its previous decision to leave the Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party. PNU leader Peter Munya announced that the party's National Executive Council (NEC) has decided to remain within the coalition, despite earlier signals suggesting that the party was considering an exit.
In an interview, Peter Munya shared the reasoning behind the decision to remain in the coalition. He explained that after extensive discussions, the NEC concluded that staying in the Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition was the more strategic choice at this time. Munya emphasized that the party recognized the strength that unity within Azimio brings.
"PNU is still in Azimio. I had given my opinion that if things continue as they are then we shall consider leaving. I invited our NEC to look at whether we should stay or leave, and after a long discussion and consultation with other parties that form the coalition, we agreed that it may not be opportune to leave at this point," Munya stated.
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He emphasized that the decision to remain was influenced by the belief that PNU could more effectively advocate for better governance and enact change from within the coalition. Munya articulated that the party’s departure could undermine the collective push for reform. "We are stronger together. If we leave, it is better to leave as a group so that you still have a coalition that can continue pushing for change that we need and are pushing for in the opposition," he added. Munya indicated that while PNU's exit was considered, the party opted to seek change from within Azimio before making any final decisions on departure.
This decision comes on the heels of Narc Kenya’s departure from Azimio. Martha Karua and her party, co-founders of the coalition, recently announced their exit, citing "ongoing political developments" as the reason. Karua, who ran for vice presidency in the 2022 elections alongside Raila Odinga, had been a prominent figure in the coalition. Her departure underscores the shifting dynamics within Azimio as various parties reassess their positions.
As PNU stays within Azimio, it continues to navigate the complexities of coalition politics, seeking to leverage its position for greater influence and reform. Munya's statement signals a strategic shift, emphasizing the importance of internal collaboration over division.
