NAIROBI, Kenya — Former The National Alliance (TNA) secretary general Onyango Oloo has received the full registration certificate for his Freedom and Opportunity Party (FOP), adding a new political outfit to Kenya's political landscape ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Oloo has indicated that he is willing to contest the presidency if party members endorse his candidature.
FOP received its full registration certificate on Monday, becoming the 102nd political party in Kenya, according to the information provided.
Speaking after receiving the certificate, Oloo expressed satisfaction with the achievement and said he was ready to enter the presidential race if he secured the support of party members.
“I am offering myself to contest for the top seat. If party members endorse it, I will be in the race,” he told The Star.
Oloo Prioritises Building FOP Before Coalition Talks
Although he has indicated an interest in the presidency, Oloo said his immediate priority was to build the party and establish its identity before entering into coalition negotiations.
He maintained that FOP would not join political alliances simply to increase its numerical strength, insisting that any partnership must be based on shared principles and objectives.
“We will not join a coalition just for the sake of joining. Their aspirations must align with ours. We want to work with like-minded parties,” he said.
Oloo added that the party's primary goal was to improve the lives of Kenyans rather than pursue political power at any cost.
“We do not want to form the next government at all costs. Our ultimate objective is to transform lives,” he said.
He also said FOP would be prepared to serve in the Opposition if voters did not give it the opportunity to form the next government.
“If Kenyans give us the opportunity to be in Opposition, we will thank them for giving us the role to check the government in place. It will be an honour. If they give us the opportunity to form government, the better,” Oloo said.
Registrar Urges New Party to Uphold Its Ideology
During the certificate presentation, Registrar of Political Parties John Cox Lorionokou challenged Oloo and his team to remain faithful to the ideology and principles outlined by the party.
“I want to believe that you have a reason for wanting to be there,” Lorionokou said.
He urged FOP to contribute to strengthening Kenya's democracy by creating opportunities for citizens to exercise their political rights and participate meaningfully in political activities.
The registrar also called on the party to provide young people with greater opportunities to participate in party affairs, noting concerns that some political organisations had not given them meaningful roles.
“You stated your ideology, what you stand for. We want you to follow that and be part of the shapers of democracy in Kenya,” he said.
Lorionokou expressed hope that FOP would live up to its name by giving Kenyans opportunities to participate in politics and have their voices heard.
“I look forward to seeing you being a party of opportunities, as you said, allowing Kenyans to get some space and exercise their political rights,” he said.
Oloo Warned of Challenges Ahead of 2027
Lorionokou cautioned that establishing and running a political party would be challenging, particularly as political activity intensifies ahead of the next General Election.
“It is a challenging environment, you know. The environment is already charged,” he said.
He further urged FOP to maintain a national outlook as it expands and seeks support across the country.
“Keep your party as national as possible,” he added.
New Party Enters Kenya's 2027 Political Race
FOP's full registration comes as political leaders and parties begin preparing for the 2027 General Election.
Several opposition figures have expressed interest in the presidency, while discussions about possible alliances and a joint candidate continue to shape the political landscape.
Oloo's announcement signals his willingness to join the presidential contest, although his candidature remains subject to endorsement by party members.
For now, he says FOP will concentrate on building its organisation, defining its political identity and pursuing partnerships with parties that share its principles.
