ODM leaders seek clear terms for a future political arrangement with President William Ruto.
Simba Arati and Abdulswamad Nassir want ODM to secure the deputy presidency, while Oburu Oginga urges members to follow formal negotiating structures.
An ODM power-sharing demand has put the Deputy President’s position at the centre of discussions over cooperation with President William Ruto. Deputy party leaders Simba Arati and Abdulswamad Nassir want the post secured in any future political arrangement.
The Kisii and Mombasa governors said ODM must obtain clear guarantees before committing to a deal with UDA. Their demands come as the party considers its relationship with Ruto’s administration ahead of the 2027 General Election.
ODM power-sharing demand centres on clear terms
Arati said a formal agreement must spell out the terms under which ODM would cooperate with UDA. He also rejected calls for unconditional support, saying the party must protect its interests and Raila Odinga’s political ideals.
Meanwhile, Nassir insisted that ODM must secure the country’s second-highest office in any future arrangement. He also said the party would field candidates for all elective positions, including county assemblies, Parliament and governorships.
Arati pushed back against critics who questioned ODM’s strength following the departure of some members. Instead, he maintained that the party remained intact and continued to mobilise its supporters.
The Kisii governor also linked the current leadership to the legacy of the late Raila Odinga. He said ODM would continue pursuing the rights and freedoms that the former prime minister championed.
Oburu calls for structured negotiations
However, ODM leader Oburu Oginga emphasised formal party channels when addressing the same gathering. He said ODM already participated in the broad-based government through established structures and had made a deliberate political choice.
Oburu also drew a distinction between a broad-based government and a coalition government. He argued that the arrangements operated differently and should not be treated as interchangeable.
On preparations for negotiations, Oburu said a five-member technical team was reviewing ODM’s constitution and policies. That team was nearing the end of its assignment.
A separate coalition negotiating team would follow, with appointments made jointly by his side and Ruto’s team. Oburu stressed that this body would differ from the technical team working on party matters.
He therefore urged members to respect party structures and avoid statements that could undermine discussions. As ODM prepares for the 2027 election, he called for discipline and adherence to party policies.
