By Diana Isiji
As the country heads towards the 2027 General Election, leaders are already engaging in alliances and bargaining for shares of possible power.
But as they do this, there is one question that should take centre-stage: What is in it for the common mwananchi?
The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) are associated with talks of co-operation and a possible joint manifesto.
ODM has been pressuring for the deputy president's position in a possible deal with President William Ruto.
Political parties do have the right to join forces.
They may work to combine their efforts and to set common goals and agendas, but these should not be simply about sharing out government posts and neglecting the citizens' right to know what the country is meant to be doing.
To many Kenyans, the issues of most concern are the cost of living, unemployment, quality education and the state of public services.
These are issues that require immediate solutions not what is being uttered in political rallies or in the negotiations.
Political parties that want to work together need to tell the people what they are going to deliver.
How will they work together to generate jobs?
How will they provide better services to the people? How will they make sure our taxes are used responsibly?
Citizens also need to be informed. Alliances of the political nature that could determine the future government must be explained in a way that enables the people to raise questions and debate the proposals.
Party followers need also to be in a position to know and to have a say in decisions taken in the name of their parties.
Along with the ongoing political horse-trading, we should take an interest in what each and every political party is promising. Political party coalitions are always announced but the question should be, how will they change the lives of the people?
Alliances with other parties may enable their eventual mates to put together a campaign or prepare for an election. But their true worth should be judged by what they will do for the nation.
Kenyans expect a tangible agenda, accountable leadership and measurable outcomes, not the horse-trading of positions.
Emboyoga Diana Isiji, Rongo University.