Pressure Mounts as Azimio Coalition Demands Junet Mohamed’s Removal Over “Reckless” Remarks
A deepening rift within Kenya’s main opposition coalition, Azimio La Umoja-One Kenya, has erupted into a full-blown political crisis, with seven affiliate parties issuing a formal ultimatum for the immediate removal of Minority Leader Junet Mohamed from all leadership positions.
The demand, delivered in a joint statement on Tuesday, January 13, accuses the Suna East MP of making “reckless and defamatory utterances” that undermine former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s legacy and jeopardize the coalition’s unity at a critical time.
A Coalition Divided
The parties expressed “profound concern” over Junet’s continued comments, which they argue have placed the opposition alliance in an “awkward position” and risk deepening internal divisions when parliamentary unity is paramount. They launched a staunch defense of former President Kenyatta, describing him as a leader who safeguarded national cohesion and oversaw a peaceful transfer of power—a legacy they insist must be respected.
“The statements attributed to the Minority Leader diminish that legacy,” the coalition partners stated. “We as the Azimio Parties demand the immediate retirement of Junet Mohamed from all Azimio leadership positions.”
The Heart of the Controversy
At the core of the escalating conflict is Junet Mohamed’s perceived political alignment. Critics within Azimio allege that his apparent closeness to the ruling Kenya Kwanza administration has weakened the opposition’s voice in the National Assembly. Some affiliate parties claim he has failed to champion opposition positions with sufficient force, raising questions about his commitment to the coalition’s cause.
This standoff is the latest chapter in Junet’s long history of internal political battles, both within his mother party, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), and the broader opposition landscape. His career has been defined by a steadfast loyalty to ODM leader Raila Odinga, but also by sharp rivalries and clashes with senior figures, including ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, over party discipline and accusations of external interference.
A Pattern of Controversy
The current firestorm is not Junet’s first encounter with significant backlash. He previously faced criticism over alleged missteps during the 2022 General Election, including accusations of sidelining key advisors and disseminating misinformation. These past controversies have compounded the current distrust among his coalition partners.
As the deadline implied by the ultimatum looms, the political future of one of Kenya’s most prominent opposition figures hangs in the balance. The demand for his resignation marks a significant hardening of factions within Azimio, testing the coalition’s stability and its strategic direction ahead of future political contests.
The ball is now in the court of Azimio’s top leadership to either placate the disgruntled parties or navigate a path forward with a deeply embattled Minority Leader. The outcome will undoubtedly shape the strength and cohesion of Kenya’s opposition in the months to come.
