Duale Hints at Pentagon Coalition Revival During Kisumu Fundraiser

Signals from within President William Ruto's administration suggest a potential revival of the defunct "Pentagon" coalition, originally formed under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ahead of the contentious 2007 elections. 

The move hints at significant political realignments as Kenya approaches its 2027 general election. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, speaking at a public fundraiser in Kisumu on Sunday, referenced the original coalition, which included prominent figures such as Ruto, Raila Odinga, and Musalia Mudavadi. Duale asserted that the current government's diversity mirrors the former alliance, suggesting its "pillars" are again aligned under a shared political vision. 

Farouk Kibet, a long-time aide to President Ruto, further fuelled speculation by hinting that the presidential succession plan after Ruto's term could favour the Nyanza region, traditionally an opposition stronghold. The overtures towards inclusivity contrast sharply with the government's critical stance on recent opposition activity. The Kisumu event also became a platform for condemning the demonstrations of 25 June, where at least 15 fatalities were reported. 

Government officials labelled the protests as unlawful, accusing opposition leaders of inciting public discontent for political gain. Duale particularly criticised former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i, alleging his involvement in extrajudicial killings during the previous administration, referencing alleged mass graves and secret detention sites.

Responding to public concern over the recent deaths, Matiang'i has broken his silence, demanding a comprehensive public inquiry into all extrajudicial killings dating back to independence. He pledged to disclose information related to the unresolved deaths of Sergeant Kipyegon Kenei, IEBC official Chris Musando, and businessman Jacob Juma, politically charged cases that remain unresolved.

Kikuyu Member of Parliament Kimani Ichung'wa, also present in Kisumu, dismissed what he described as sectarian rhetoric, advocating unity while denouncing opposition leaders as "anarchists" and rejecting tribal divisions. The original Pentagon Coalition emerged in 2007 as a broad-based opposition alliance challenging the then-incumbent government. 

The coalition eventually fragmented following the disputed election results, which triggered widespread violence and a prolonged period of political instability. The potential resurrection of the Pentagon Coalition carries both symbolic weight and strategic implications. It signals a possible blending of political legacy, national inclusivity, and the promise of stability as the country edges closer to the 2027 elections.