Martha Karua Declares Presidential Run, Appeals to Kenyan Diaspora in the UK
Kenyan opposition leader Martha Karua formally declared her candidacy for the presidency, urging Kenyans living abroad to play an active role in the country’s governance and democratic development
Speaking in London during an interview with Kenyan Diaspora Media, Karua emphasised integrity, civic participation, and inclusive leadership as the pillars of her campaign. She reflected on the label “Iron Lady,” noting that male leaders are often assumed to be authoritative, while women are singled out for their strength.
Karua argued that women’s leadership should be seen as normal rather than exceptional, and described her role as inspiring younger generations to engage in public life. Karua framed leadership as a form of collective empowerment rather than individual dominance.
She said recognition from young Kenyans demonstrates that leadership can be exercised through advocacy and civic engagement, not only through holding office. “Even a person without an office can serve,” she said, urging citizens to see themselves as agents of change.
A major focus of her UK visit was mobilising the Kenyan diaspora, whom she described as an underutilised national resource. Karua promised that professionals abroad would have equal opportunities to contribute to government, business, and civil society.
She warned that structural barriers preventing their participation risk depriving Kenya of vital expertise. “Kenyans are powering Africa, Europe, America and Asia. We need that talent back home to develop Kenya and Mother Africa,” she said, emphasising merit-based opportunities over political patronage.
Karua also addressed concerns over corruption and low civic engagement. She urged voters to assess candidates on values and integrity rather than party loyalty and criticised political parties for failing to hold credible nominations, which she said undermines trustworthy leadership.
While acknowledging widespread frustration with governance, she stressed that transformation must start with citizens and pointed to the 2010 Constitution as a strong but underused framework. She invited Kenyans abroad to join her People’s Liberation Party (PLP), describing it as a movement against economic inequality, corruption, and rights violations.
Diaspora contributions could include policy engagement, grassroots mobilisation, financial support, or even pursuing elective positions within the party. In a decisive statement, Karua declared: “I am offering myself as president of the Republic of Kenya,” pledging to restore order through strict adherence to the rule of law.
She framed her candidacy as part of a broader effort to rebuild democratic institutions and create a country that serves citizens at home and abroad.
