Senate Speaker Amason Kingi in a past function. Photo Courtesy. 
By Ben Okweingoti
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi’s Pamoja African Alliance (PAA) party has suffered a significant political setback after more than 500 National Executive Committee (NEC) members and supporters in Kilifi County defected to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
The defectors, led by Malindi-based politician Elizabeth Muthoka, were officially received by Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro, who also serves as the ODM County Chairman.
Speaking during the reception, Muthoka cited alleged internal disagreements and a departure from the party’s founding ideals as key reasons for their exit. She also claimed that during a recent meeting at State House, President William Ruto allegedly urged PAA leaders to consider dissolving the party and joining either the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) or ODM as part of a broader political realignment ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“We had a vision and ideology when PAA was formed, but we were misled. The party abandoned its founding principles and instead embraced selfish interests. That is why we have resolved to walk out,” said Muthoka.
She further noted that the decision to join ODM was influenced by the party’s strong popularity across the Coastal region.
“When we joined PAA, we believed we could challenge ODM’s dominance in the region, but we later realised that ODM remains deeply rooted here. We now demand the dissolution of PAA because it has become a party without a strong grassroots following,” she added.
Watamu Member of County Assembly (MCA) Ibrahim Abdi Matumbo welcomed the defectors and assured them of full support within ODM, urging them to remain firm despite anticipated criticism.
“Some people may attack you on social media for your decision, but ODM is a party that accommodates everyone. Do not be shaken,” he said.
His Shella Ward counterpart, Twahir Abdulrahman, reaffirmed ODM’s commitment to grassroots mobilisation, calling on youth in the region to register as voters and actively participate in the party’s expansion drive.
Kaloleni Member of Parliament Paul Katana also weighed in, criticising Kingi’s leadership and accusing him of forming PAA for political survival.
“Kingi has no moral authority to speak for the people of Kilifi. He left the county struggling with minimal development and only formed PAA to remain politically relevant,” Katana claimed.
Governor Mung’aro, while welcoming the defectors, cautioned political opponents allegedly plotting to unseat him in the next election, stating that he was aware of their plans and prepared to counter them.
“Some leaders are strategising to make me a one-term governor, but I am fully aware of their schemes and will block them,” said Mung’aro.
He further emphasised ODM’s historical significance and urged members to safeguard the party’s legacy.
“Today, I am delighted to welcome over 500 former PAA members to ODM. I have also received reports that more are preparing to join. ODM is a strong party built through the efforts of the late Raila Odinga, and we must preserve and strengthen that legacy,” he said.
However, PAA leadership dismissed the reported defections, with Ganze MP and party Secretary General Kenneth Kazungu Tungule downplaying the development.
“Hizi ni vitimbi tu, hakuna member wa PAA ame defect,” he wrote on his Facebook page, loosely translating to, “These are just games; no PAA member has defected.”
Political analysts note that the defections could also complicate the political ambitions of former Cabinet Secretary and Kenya Roads Board (KRB) Chairperson Aisha Jumwa, who recently left UDA to join PAA and is widely expected to contest for the Kilifi gubernatorial seat in the 2027 elections.
