ODM Demands 50% Power Share in Potential UDA Alliance Ahead of 2027 Polls

By Ben Okweingoti.

Leaders from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) have declared that any prospective political alliance with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ahead of the 2027 General Election must be anchored on a 50-50 power-sharing arrangement.

Speaking during the ODM Kilifi County Youth Convention held in Malindi, Deputy Party Leaders Abdulswamad Nassir and Simba Arati emphasized that the party would only commit to a coalition that guarantees equitable representation in government.

The leaders stated that ODM would push for key positions, including the Deputy President slot and one of the Speaker roles in Parliament, to ensure meaningful participation in governance.

Arati noted that ODM would field candidates across all elective positions—from Members of County Assembly (MCAs) to the presidency—before engaging in coalition negotiations. He also acknowledged William Ruto for intervening to curb what he described as disrespectful remarks from some UDA leaders directed at ODM.

The leaders also took issue with Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of launching attacks against Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho.

ODM Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga reiterated the party’s stance, asserting that ODM would enter negotiations as an equal partner.

“We are the largest party in the region and we are going into these talks as equals. Our goal is to secure 50 percent of the government should this partnership materialize,” Wanga said, adding that Joho is well-positioned for the Deputy President role.

Joho himself expressed confidence in securing the DP position, further revealing his intention to contest the presidency in 2032. He also challenged Gachagua to address allegations related to a family property dispute involving his late brother.

Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro highlighted efforts to unite leaders from the Coast region, noting that collaboration between himself, Joho, and Nassir had strengthened regional political cohesion.

“We have experienced divisions in the past, but we are now moving forward as a united front. Our recent meetings have been focused on shaping the region’s political future,” Mung’aro said.

Other leaders present included Busia Governor Paul Otuoma, Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, Malindi MP Amina Mnyazi, and Kaloleni MP Paul Katana.

Barasa urged young people to rally behind ODM, describing it as a forward-looking party capable of steering the country’s development agenda.

“I encourage the youth to join ODM in large numbers so that together we can shape the future of this country,” he said