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OTIENDE: A coalition for a better Kenya

It would bridge ethnic and political divides, fostering national unity, reconciliation.

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by JAPHETH OTIENDE

Columnists23 July 2024 - 14:24
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In Summary


  • Both UDA and ODM have substantial grassroots support across different regions and ethnic groups, reflecting Kenya's diversity.
  • ODM's long-term strategic planning and UDA's growing membership and financial resources indicate robust organisational capabilities.
President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga at President Yoweri Museveni's Kisozi country home in Uganda on February 26, 2024

In the intricate tapestry of Kenyan politics, the call for a coalition that genuinely represents the diverse Kenyan society has never been more pressing. The country's political history and recent global trends underscore the necessity of unity among major political parties like UDA and ODM for a stable and prosperous Kenya.

Kenya's 2007 general election is a stark reminder of the perils of political division. The violence and unrest that followed highlighted the deep-seated ethnic and political fractures within the country. The subsequent formation of a coalition government between President Mwai Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga, under the National Accord and Reconciliation Act, was a pivotal moment.

This coalition, though fraught with challenges, managed to stabilise the country, initiate constitutional reforms and pave the way for a more inclusive political process. The grand coalition demonstrated that even deeply entrenched political rivals could come together for the nation's greater good. It set a precedent that unity and cooperation could transcend political affiliations, leading to significant legislative and constitutional milestones.

The 2024 French election provides a compelling parallel. President Emmanuel Macron's La République En Marche! faced substantial opposition from both the far left and far right. With no party securing a clear majority, coalition-building became essential. The fragmented results necessitated alliances to navigate France's legislative agenda effectively.

This scenario underscores the importance of major political players collaborating to ensure stable governance and represent diverse societal interests.

Similarly, South Africa's 2024 election marked the end of the African National Congress's three-decade majority. With the ANC securing only 39.77 per cent of the vote, coalition partnerships became imperative. The Democratic Alliance and the newly established uMkhonto weSizwe Party emerged as significant players. This shift highlighted the necessity of coalition politics in ensuring broader representation and addressing regional disparities.

Kenya's current political climate mirrors these global trends. The UDA and ODM, as the two largest political entities, embody the broad spectrum of Kenyan society. A coalition between these parties would not only symbolise national unity but also leverage their combined strengths for the country's benefit.

Both UDA and ODM have substantial grassroots support across different regions and ethnic groups, reflecting Kenya's diversity. ODM's long-term strategic planning and UDA's growing membership and financial resources indicate robust organisational capabilities. Both parties boast experienced leaders with a proven track record of governance and policy formulation.

A coalition would bridge ethnic and political divides, fostering a sense of national unity and reconciliation. With no single party holding an overwhelming majority, coalition governance ensures checks and balances, leading to more stable and inclusive decision-making processes. Unified leadership can drive comprehensive economic and social reforms, addressing issues like unemployment, healthcare, and education more effectively.

There will always be protests and noise from smaller parties such as the Wiper party, Narc and others, as they represent very narrow interests in the big picture of Kenya. These parties, while important, often focus on specific regional or ethnic issues that may not align with the broader national agenda. Their protests and opposition are part of a healthy democracy, but they should not detract from the need for major parties to collaborate for the greater good.

Political parties are formed to govern and lead the country, and UDA and ODM are pursuing such goals. They have been governing many areas of the country in local and national governments. It is high time that Kenyans rise to the reality that their interests can only be best served with a coalition arrangement.

Dispelling the notion that simply removing one government and replacing it with another political party will solve their problems is crucial. Instead, a coalition arrangement will help deliver services more effectively and ensure a more unified, stable and prosperous Kenya.

Drawing lessons from Kenya's own history and recent global electoral trends, it is evident that coalition politics can lead to more stable and representative governance.

A UDA-ODM coalition holds the promise of a unified Kenya, capable of addressing the nation's challenges with a collective vision and strategic approach. It is high time for Kenya's major political players to set aside their differences and work together for the common good, ensuring a prosperous future for all Kenyans.

Kenyan citizen residing in Botswana

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