NLP writes to Registrar over Azimio’s structure, finances and membership

National Liberal Party leader Augustus Muli at a past event/FILE

The National Liberal Party (NLP), a founding member of the Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party, has formally petitioned the Registrar of Political Parties to provide clarity on the coalition’s current structure, finances, and membership.

The move comes at a time when Azimio is grappling with internal shifts, including the resignation of its Executive Director Raphael Tuju.

In the letter, NLP Secretary General Omondi Koyoo said the coalition, born out of the 2011 amendment to the Political Parties Act that allowed for coalition political parties, must now demonstrate transparency and accountability.

At its inception, Azimio united 26 registered parties, making it the largest coalition in Kenya’s history and a symbol of broad‑based representation.

It was recognised as the majority party in Parliament and positioned as a force for unity, reform, and democratic aspiration.

Koyoo emphasised that coalitions are “living agreements, not tombstones,” and therefore should evolve with the rhythm of democratic choice.

He demanded the Registrar furnish the coalition’s deed of agreement, the current list of constituent parties, details of those that have exited, the status of its governing body, and a record of officials who have left.

He also called for disclosure of funds disbursed from the Political Parties’ Fund, particularly allocations tied to the 6.9 million presidential votes Azimio garnered in the 2022 elections.

NLP leader Augustus Muli said they are waiting to see what the chairman of the the coalition, Uhuru Kenyatta, will do to give Azimio new energy and cohesion.

He added that Azimio, currently, doesn’t have clear officials and offices

“The current officials are currently scared of holding elections, fearing that smaller parties might actually take over the leadership positions due to their numbers,” Muli added.

“As parties languish and face deregistration because of the costs of recruitment and running offices, partner parties are hoarding millions in banks courtesy of our coalition.”

Tuju’s resignation adds weight to the Liberal Party’s concerns, highlighting cracks in the coalition’s leadership at a critical juncture.

In a surprise move, Tuju announced that he is stepping down as head of the Azimio La Umoja One-Kenya Coalition Party’s executive team.

Reports indicate that Tuju communicated his resignation to party chairman Uhuru Kenyatta during a joint meeting of the Council and the National Executive Committee (NEC).

Philip Kisia has been appointed as the coalition’s new executive director and will take over Tuju’s responsibilities.

Tuju, a seasoned politician, was originally appointed to the role on April 6, 2022.

A few days before taking on the role, Tuju resigned from his position in former President Kenyatta’s Cabinet and stepped down as Jubilee Party Secretary General, citing a desire to focus on other political engagements.

Tuju served as a Cabinet Secretary without portfolio under Uhuru’s administration.