- PLP leader Martha Karua announces her 2027 presidential run.
- She promises to serve only one term if elected.
- Karua frames her campaign as service, not ambition.
- Launches “One People, One Purpose, One Term” movement.
- Her entry raises tension within the opposition camp.
The leader of the People’s Liberation Party (PLP), Martha Karua, has officially confirmed she will contest the presidency in 2027. She made the announcement during the party’s National Delegates Conference, describing her candidacy as a duty to Kenyans rather than a personal pursuit of power.
“Today, before you, I declare my candidacy for the Presidency of the Republic of Kenya in the next General Election under the banner of the People’s Liberation Party and within a united opposition,” Karua said.
Karua assured her supporters that if she secures the presidency, she will only serve for five years. She argued that one term is enough to lay a solid foundation for reforms.
“I pledge to demystify power. Five years are enough to show integrity, justice, and service,” she noted.
Her promise contrasts sharply with the trend across Africa, where leaders often cling to power.
This is not Karua’s first attempt at the presidency. In 2013, she contested on a NARC-Kenya ticket but garnered less than 1% of the vote. In 2022, she reemerged as Raila Odinga’s running mate under the Azimio coalition, narrowly losing to William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza. After the defeat, she became one of the strongest critics of the electoral system.
A seasoned lawyer and former Justice Minister, Karua resigned from the Cabinet in 2009 due to frustrations with corruption in the government.
Karua’s political career has been defined by resilience and principle. Admirers hail her as firm and consistent, while critics argue her hardline approach has cost her valuable alliances.
At the NDC, Karua also unveiled a new political drive titled “One People, One Purpose, One Term.” She said the movement will push for accountability, justice, and unity among Kenyans.
“Kenyans are hurting, and Kenyans deserve better,” she declared, urging the opposition and citizens to rally behind her.
Karua’s entry into the race is expected to shake up the opposition. Democratic Congress Party leader Rigathi Gachagua has also announced his bid, setting up a potential showdown that could reshape political alignments ahead of the 2027 election.
