Opposition's unity pact faces test as principals plan make or break retreat

The United Opposition faces a crucial test as leaders plan a two-day retreat on August 24 and 25 in Machakos County. This gathering aims to address key questions confronting the opposition ahead of the 2027 General Election, including who will lead the coalition, its organization, decision-making processes, and the selection process for a presidential candidate.

The retreat comes after the opposition met in Nairobi and agreed to establish a secretariat, with each party expected to send two representatives to manage the coalition's affairs. However, the planned retreat is already raising doubts about its actual occurrence, given past instances of unfulfilled meetings.

United Opposition spokesperson Mukhisa Kituyi cautiously discussed the retreat's agenda, stating he would comment only once convinced of its actuality. He highlighted previous failed meetings, emphasizing the need to establish the principals' willingness to sit down before addressing the retreat's substance.

Mutula Kilonzo Jnr, Wiper Patriotic Front vice-chairperson, confirmed a retreat was being planned but maintained that no set date was in place. He acknowledged tentative dates in October and the need for constituent parties' concurrence.

The uncertainty surrounding the retreat is damaging, as President Ruto's administration intensifies attacks on the opposition, portraying it as a fragmented group lacking a clear agenda or presidential candidate. The Machakos meeting arrives at a critical juncture, requiring the opposition to demonstrate its capacity to resolve internal differences while presenting itself as a credible alternative government.

The primary challenge lies in the opposition's inability to establish a fully functional secretariat and agree on a process for selecting the presidential candidate. Despite numerous meetings, rallies, and unity promises, key questions remain unresolved.

One of the coalition's co-convenors, Martha Karua, stated that no decision has been made on the criteria, process, or timeline for choosing the flag bearer. This follows claims by Wiper leader Musyoka that Democracy for Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua had endorsed him for the top seat.

Wiper spokesperson Ndegwa Njiru affirmed the opposition's commitment to presenting a single presidential candidate, dismissing claims of a political deal with Gachagua's Democratic Coalition Party. Njiru emphasized the retreat's potential to move the coalition toward organizational reality, but acknowledged the possibility of exposing internal divisions.

President Ruto's aggressive criticism has further pressured the opposition, forcing them to address the need for a coherent policy agenda beyond merely opposing Ruto's re-election. The coalition's leaders have sought to position themselves as an alternative government, emphasizing their role in providing better governance.