Augustus Kyalo Muli Says National Liberal Party Will Chart Its Own Path in 2027 Race

Augustus Kyalo Muli has declared that his National Liberal Party (NLP) will not automatically align itself with established opposition figures ahead of the 2027 General Election, signaling his intention to position himself as an independent political force.

In a recent statement, Muli dismissed growing speculation that his party would rally behind either Kalonzo Musyoka or Fred Matiang’i. Instead, he emphasized that NLP is focused on building its own national platform and offering voters an alternative to long-standing political alliances.

"We will form the next government or be part of the winning coalition,” Muli said, underscoring his ambition to move beyond the role of a minor political player. He argued that Kenya’s opposition landscape has been dominated by familiar faces who have failed to deliver tangible gains to their traditional support bases

Muli was particularly critical of Kalonzo’s long political career, saying decades of leadership had not translated into meaningful development for local communities. He maintained that the time had come for new leaders to emerge and redefine opposition politics.

His remarks come amid shifting alliances within the opposition camp. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta, who chairs the Azimio coalition, has publicly backed Matiang’i’s presidential bid. The Party of National Unity has also declared its support for Matiang’i.

Meanwhile, Kalonzo continues to consolidate his base under the Wiper Democratic Movement banner, seeking to strengthen his influence within the opposition.

However, unity efforts have been complicated by internal tensions. Disagreements involving Oburu Oginga Odinga, Edwin Sifuna, and Babu Owino have exposed divisions within the Orange Democratic Movement, raising questions about the opposition’s cohesion.

Against this backdrop, NLP claims a membership of over 500,000 supporters. Analysts note that such numbers could be influential in a close contest, especially considering that William Ruto won the 2022 election by a narrow margin.

Muli has also intensified grassroots mobilization, particularly among marginalized and coastal communities. His earlier endorsement by the Agikuyu Council of Elders is seen as a strategic move to expand his appeal in the Mt Kenya region.

The elders reportedly encouraged him to promote cooperation between the GEMA and Kamba communities, a strategy that could reshape future political alliances.