In a major shift from what coalitions thought would be an easy ride to the finish line, the final patch is proving to be tougher and rougher, thanks in part to a new reawakening by partners that unless certain grey areas are thrashed out now, problems that bedevilled past such formations would abound.
The issue of post-election relevance is proving to be a thorny one given that there are so many conflicting interests to be taken care of by various players.
This coming election is promising to spell doom for many contenders, thus the wind of caution seen in the way alliances and agreements are cobbled.
It is not lost on political pundits that the issue of naming presidential running mates is now a delicate balancing act with the potential to tear not only the coalitions but also derail presidential journeys.
What is happening in Azimio, for example, is as a result of ravenous ambition and political machinations by a desperate political class intent at being seen to enjoy massive support, even if by splitting parties then finally coalescing them.
Such schemes are always bound to fail since no common bond defines them. They lack a strong foundation and a framework of working together devoid of sectarianism.
Nothing much may change in terms of support for the main contenders but keeping the coalitions together might be the tie-breaker, much more than naming the running mates.
Economic and political analyst
