Kenya’s Opposition Giant ODM Signals Possible Alliance With Ruto Ahead of Next Elections
Kenya’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), one of the country’s most influential opposition parties, has announced plans to enter structured political negotiations with other parties — including the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) — as part of preparations for the next general election.
The decision was reached on Monday, January 12, after a high-level meeting of the ODM Central Committee held in Kilifi County, Kenya. During the meeting, senior party officials assessed the party’s political standing, organisational strength, and long-term electoral strategy within Kenya’s rapidly shifting political environment.
Speaking on behalf of the Central Committee, Oburu Oginga said the party had resolved to actively pursue pre-election alliances as a strategic move to strengthen ODM’s national influence. The leadership believes that structured cooperation with other political formations could play a critical role in shaping Kenya’s next political chapter.
In a significant development, the committee formally authorised the ODM Party Leader to begin talks with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) — a notable move considering the intense rivalry between the two parties in recent election cycles.
“The Committee meeting expressed the intention to initiate structured negotiations with different political formations, beginning with the United Democratic Alliance. To this end, we have mandated the Party Leader to commence this process,” the statement read.
According to the party, the planned discussions will be carefully organised and guided by shared national interests rather than short-term political convenience. ODM stressed that any engagement would reflect the realities of Kenya’s evolving political landscape.
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At the same time, the party announced it would begin nationwide consultations with its members to gather grassroots views before making any final political realignments. These consultations are expected to shape ODM’s ultimate position and will later be presented for approval at a National Delegates Convention, the party’s highest decision-making forum.
Beyond alliance talks, the Central Committee also addressed the implementation of ODM’s 10-Point Agenda, particularly the issue of compensating victims of public protests. Following a court ruling that declared a previously proposed compensation panel unlawful, the party resolved that any future compensation efforts should be handled through the constitutionally recognised Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR).
During a press briefing, questions arose over the absence of key party figures at the meeting. Oburu Oginga dismissed speculation of internal rifts, explaining that ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Otsotsi had sent apologies due to logistical challenges.
Sifuna, known nationally for his outspoken criticism of the current Kenyan government, had previously declared he would rather leave the party than engage politically with President William Ruto. However, his tone reportedly softened following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, after which he indicated a willingness to prioritise party unity and dialogue.
The developments signal a potentially transformative period in Kenyan politics, with possible ripple effects across the wider African political landscape where coalition-building is increasingly shaping governance and elections.
Kenya’s Opposition Giant ODM Signals Possible Alliance With Ruto Ahead of Next Elections
