NAIROBI, Kenya — The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has intensified its pre-election coalition negotiations with President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA), insisting on an equal 50–50 power-sharing arrangement ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking at a rally in Dandora, Embakasi North Constituency, ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga said the party would not accept any alliance that does not guarantee parity in government positions.
“ODM’s engagement with UDA is conditional and anchored on equal stakes in the proposed coalition,” Wanga said, underscoring the party’s insistence on balance.
She announced that ODM plans to field candidates for all elective positions in Nairobi County, including the governorship, as it consolidates its support base in the capital. Decisions on the presidency, she added, would be taken only after coalition negotiations conclude.
Beyond power-sharing, ODM is advocating for the full implementation of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report, which the party says aligns with the bipartisan agenda agreed upon by President Ruto and the late ODM leader Raila Odinga.
Wanga also highlighted compensation for families of victims of recent protests as a key pillar of the party’s demands, stressing the need for justice.
Earlier, during a church service at St Peter’s Enocha Legio Maria Mission in Dandora, ODM leaders reiterated their intention to contest all Nairobi County seats, from Members of County Assembly to Governor, as part of the party’s 2027 strategy.
However, internal divisions within ODM have emerged over the timing and scope of coalition discussions.
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Speaking in Got Kabindi, Masana, South Maragoli in Vihiga County, ODM Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi described the UDA–ODM negotiations as premature, warning that committing too early could disadvantage the party politically.
“With the election still over a year away, ODM risks being shortchanged if it enters into a coalition prematurely,” Osotsi said, cautioning that shifting political alliances could undermine the party’s long-term interests.
Osotsi also insisted that ODM must field its own presidential candidate in 2027, emphasizing that the party cannot forfeit contesting the top seat under any coalition arrangement.
