A former high-ranking official of the Pamoja African Alliance (PAA) has revealed that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) played a significant role in the party's decision not to field candidates in the 2027 general elections. Kenneth Tungule, the MP for Ganze and former secretary general of PAA, stated that ODM's politics of collaboration with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) weakened PAA. He claimed that some Coast region leaders felt threatened by PAA's growing popularity and lobbied President William Ruto to dissolve the party.
According to Tungule, PAA's decision not to participate in the 2027 elections was not a dissolution, but rather a strategic move. He revealed that some party officials had already agreed to the decision, despite his opposition. PAA had won three parliamentary seats in 2022, with Tungule, Gonzi Rai, and Anthony Kenga emerging victorious. The party's performance was seen as a threat to ODM's dominance in the Coast region, a stronghold for the party led by Raila Odinga.
Tungule disclosed that PAA officials had met with President Ruto to argue against the party's dissolution. However, he claimed that the pressure from other leaders was too great, and the party ultimately decided not to field candidates. He stated that had PAA continued to exist, it would have denied ODM a significant advantage in the region. The Coast region has been a stronghold for ODM, and the party's influence was a major factor in PAA's decision.
Some PAA officials, including former Labour Minister Kazungu Kambi, left the party to form a new one. Aisha Jumwa, a former Gender Minister, also joined PAA before returning to UDA and later moving to another opposition party. Jumwa is currently vying for the governor's seat, and her move has been seen as a significant blow to ODM's plans in the region.
The dissolution of PAA has been seen as a strategic move by ODM to maintain its grip on the Coast region. ODM is pushing for the allocation of political positions as part of pre-election agreements with UDA. The presence of smaller parties like Kenya Kwanza fielding candidates in areas considered ODM strongholds could have undermined this strategy.
Tungule revealed that he continued to oppose the dissolution of PAA, but acknowledged that some party officials had already agreed to the decision. He stated that had PAA continued to exist, it would have collected more votes for the presidency. The 2027 general elections are expected to be highly competitive, and the dynamics of the Coast region will play a significant role in determining the outcome.
The implications of PAA's decision not to field candidates are still unclear. However, it is evident that ODM's influence in the region remains significant. The party's ability to maintain its stronghold in the Coast region will be crucial in determining its success in the 2027 elections. Other politicians, including Ali Mbogo, who had joined PAA, have since moved to other parties, adding to the complex dynamics of the region.
Key points
- ODM's politics of collaboration with UDA weakened PAA
- PAA's decision not to field candidates was influenced by pressure from Coast region leaders
- The dissolution of PAA has significant implications for ODM's grip on the Coast region ahead of the 2027 elections
