The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party in Kenya is staking its claim to power, with the party's leadership crystallizing its demands for supporting President William Ruto's re-election in 2027. The party is seeking assurances that its backing will translate into tangible policy gains, a place in the next government, and the running mate slot. This marks a shift from the initial declarations of unconditional support to a more conditional approach.
ODM Deputy Party Leader and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has emphasized that the running mate slot must be reserved for the party as a condition for supporting Ruto's re-election. He also fronted Ali Hassan Joho as a possible contender for the position. Kisii Governor Simba Arati echoed Nassir's sentiments, stating that the party will pursue its interests with conditions that guarantee its place in government.
The ODM party's change of heart may have been informed by pushback from party loyalists and leaders who were reluctant to hand over Raila Odinga's political empire to Ruto without conditions. Party stalwarts cautioned that by throwing itself too easily at Ruto and his United Democratic Alliance, the party risked being taken for granted. As a result, the party is now pushing for a written pre-election coalition agreement detailing what it stands to gain.
The party's demands were made clear at a rally at Jacaranda grounds, where ODM leaders and supporters gathered to make their voices heard. Even die-hard Ruto re-election advocate and Homabay Town MP Opondo Kaluma has switched his position, warning that the party will go for an "arm and a leg" in its pre-coalition deal with Ruto's United Democratic Alliance.
The ODM party's support is crucial for Ruto's re-election, with the party having over 80% of the votes to guarantee his win. Party supporters have been critical of the price of support for Ruto, with some accusing the party of being auctioned off to the highest bidder. In response, party leaders have assured supporters that negotiations will be done through the relevant party structures.
The implementation of key commitments that shaped Raila Odinga's legacy is also a major demand by the ODM party. Kisii Governor Simba Arati emphasized that the party will pursue an agreement that encompasses social justice, a course that was close to Raila's heart. This suggests that the party is committed to pushing for policies that align with its values and principles.
The negotiations between the ODM party and Ruto's United Democratic Alliance are expected to be tough, with both sides pushing for their interests to be represented. The outcome of these negotiations will likely have a significant impact on the 2027 elections and the future of Kenyan politics.
Key points
- ODM party sets tough demands for supporting President William Ruto's re-election in 2027.
- The party is seeking the Deputy President slot and a written coalition agreement.
- The negotiations between ODM and Ruto's United Democratic Alliance are expected to be tough.
