ODM demands 50–50 power-sharing deal with UDA ahead of 2027 polls

ODM demands 50–50 power-sharing deal with UDA ahead of 2027 polls

File image of ODM National Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga. PHOTO| COURTESY

Vocalize Pre-Player Loader

Audio By Vocalize

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has escalated its demands in ongoing pre-election coalition talks 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 during a rally in Dandora, Embakasi North Constituency, ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga said the party would not accept any coalition agreement that falls short of an equal stake in government.

She stressed that ODM’s engagement with UDA is conditional and anchored on parity in the proposed alliance.

Wanga further announced that ODM will field candidates for all elective positions in Nairobi County, including the governorship, as the party consolidates its support base in the capital.

She said decisions on the presidency would only be made after the conclusion of coalition negotiations with UDA.

In addition to power-sharing, ODM is pushing for the full implementation of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report, which the party says forms part of the broader bipartisan agenda agreed upon by President Ruto and the late ODM leader Raila Odinga.

Wanga specifically called for compensation for families of individuals who lost their lives during recent protests, noting that justice for victims remains a key pillar of the party’s demands.

Earlier, while attending a church service at St Peter’s Enocha Legio Maria Mission in Dandora, ODM leaders reiterated that the party would contest all seats in Nairobi, from Member of County Assembly to Governor, as part of its 2027 strategy.

However, differing views have emerged within ODM regarding the timing and nature of the coalition talks. Speaking separately in Got Kabindi, Masana, South Maragoli in Vihiga County, ODM Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi termed the UDA–ODM pre-election negotiations premature, warning that the party risks being politically disadvantaged.

Osotsi argued that with the election still over a year away, ODM could be shortchanged if it commits too early to a deal, cautioning that shifting political alliances could undermine the party’s interests.

He further insisted that ODM must field its own presidential candidate in the 2027 election, maintaining that the party cannot forgo contesting the top seat as part of any coalition arrangement.

Tags:

citizen digital citizentv kenya

Want to send us a story? SMS to 25170 or WhatsApp 0743570000 or Submit on Citizen Digital or email wananchi@royalmedia.co.ke

Leave a Comment

Comments

No comments yet.