Jubilee Vice Chairman David Murathe has dismissed the departure of Maendeleo Chap Chap and Pamoja African Alliance from the Azimio coalition as insignificant, asserting the move holds little strategic value for the broader political alliance.
The exodus followed accusations from Maendeleo Chap Chap leader Alfred Mutua and Pamoja African Alliance chair Amason Kingi that Azimio leadership failed to uphold commitments to transparency and inclusivity. Murathe countered that the two parties lacked substantial regional influence, particularly in Ukambani and the coastal region.
"The Machakos Governor has no significant following in Ukambani. I don't see how his exit strengthens the UDA ticket," Murathe stated on NTV, referencing the coalition led by Deputy President William Ruto. He added that Kingi's demands for exclusive zoning of the coastal region conflicted with Azimio's national focus.
"Kingi's priorities center on Giriama interests, while Azimio represents the entire country. He sought Kilifi zone control, but our vision is national unity," Murathe explained. He also dismissed claims that the coalition's registered document influenced the split, calling it a convenient excuse.
Murathe highlighted that Mutua and Kingi were excluded from Azimio's National Executive Council, a key decision-making body. "They're manufacturing grievances. Their absence from the NEC was disrespectful, given their status as party leaders," he said. He further noted both leaders had previously signed a Jubilee coalition agreement before joining Azimio, which he claimed undermined their credibility.
