Narc-Kenya has announced a major rebranding, signalling its leader Martha Karua’s renewed focus on vying for the presidency in 2027. The rebranding includes a name change to the People’s Liberation Party (PLP) and a revamped identity aimed at positioning the party as a formidable opposition to President William Ruto’s administration.
The party, originally formed in 2006 as an offshoot of the National Rainbow Coalition (Narc), played a pivotal role in Mwai Kibaki’s 2002 electoral victory before disintegrating amid leadership disputes.
According to a notice published in the Kenya Gazette, the rebranding will include:
- New Name: From Narc-Kenya to People’s Liberation Party (PLP).
- New Slogan: Changing from “One Kenya, One Nation, One People” to “Unite, Liberate.”
- New Colours: Transitioning from luminous red and white to lilac, white, and purple.
- New Symbol: A purple rose replacing the traditional red rose flower.
Karua, a seasoned politician who has consistently championed human rights and good governance, declared her intentions to run for the presidency in an interview with K24 TV. “I made it as a running mate before. And I will definitely make it as an aspirant. I will toss myself to the battlefield and compete, then we will let Kenyans decide who their president will be,” she said.
During a recent National Delegates Conference, Karua announced her decision not to seek re-election as party leader, citing a constitutional amendment within the party to introduce term limits for its top leadership.
“We wish to be the first party in Kenya to have term limits for the top leadership. This means that in the next party elections, I will not be eligible to contest,” she stated, emphasizing the party’s commitment to progressive governance.
Karua has also been vocal in criticizing the Ruto administration for what she describes as a rollback on democratic gains, citing incidents of abductions, enforced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings.
The rebranding comes amid growing dissatisfaction in Mount Kenya following the impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua as Deputy President. Analysts suggest Karua may leverage this discontent to rally support in the region.
Additionally, she has hinted at forging alliances with like-minded leaders, including former Trade Minister Dr. Mukhisa Kituyi and former Makueni Governor Prof. Kivutha Kibwana.
As Kenya heads toward the 2027 elections, Karua’s revamped political strategy and rebranding of PLP could reshape the country’s political landscape, offering voters an alternative vision of leadership rooted in accountability, inclusivity, and justice.
