Recent events at a burial in Malinya have revealed underlying tensions within the Mulembe political family, highlighting a struggle for leadership and influence ahead of the 2027 elections.

• The core issue is a contest over who will lead and have the final say within the opposition bloc.
• Key figures within the Mulembe community are involved in this jostling for power.
• Despite outward displays of unity, the event exposed a more difficult reality of internal competition among leaders.

The Party of National Unity (PNU) has endorsed former Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i as its presidential candidate for the 2027 General Election. This endorsement, made by PNU Deputy Leader Peter Munya, signals a strengthened opposition challenge to President William Ruto in the Meru region.

• Peter Munya declared Fred Matiang’i as the PNU's choice for president, aiming to rally Meru voters.
• Munya also challenged President William Ruto's support in Meru, urging voters not to be swayed by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki's regional ties.
• Both Munya and Matiang’i criticized the Kenya Kwanza administration for alleged failures in healthcare and the tea sector, citing issues like the Social Health Authority (SHA) and a 0.8 per cent tea levy.