Bunge la Mwananchi members urge ODM to secure clear commitments on power-sharing and youth opportunities before backing President Ruto’s re-election.
Bunge la Mwananchi members in Kisumu want a written ODM-UDA pact before the 2027 General Election. They urged ODM to secure documented commitments before supporting President William Ruto’s bid for a second term.
During a press briefing, the grassroots leaders said the terms must explain how ODM and its supporters would benefit. They argued that a formal agreement would protect the party’s interests and help prevent future disputes.
The members also called for clear power-sharing terms, with ODM negotiating as an equal partner. They rejected any arrangement that would give the party a junior role in the broad-based government.
Written ODM-UDA pact must carry clear commitments
Samuel Ongiya, one of the speakers, said a written agreement should underpin any pre-election arrangement between the parties. However, he warned that a document alone would not guarantee implementation.
Ongiya said both parties must show genuine commitment to honouring the terms. In particular, he argued that the agreement would have little value without goodwill from President Ruto.
The speakers also defended ODM’s national standing and its substantial support base. They said cooperation must preserve party independence and respect multiparty democracy under Kenya’s constitutional order.
Youth opportunities should go beyond campaign roles
Meanwhile, the members urged ODM negotiators to prioritise young people’s interests in any talks with UDA. They wanted commitments on jobs, representation and economic empowerment, rather than an agreement focused only on political positions.
They also questioned expectations that young people should support political deals without clear plans to improve their livelihoods. The speakers proposed parliamentary and county assembly discussions on support for young people after they complete their education.
Charles Aduogo, ODM’s Kisumu West chairman, cautioned against treating young people merely as campaign mobilisers. Instead, the members wanted an agreement that addressed economic challenges facing ordinary Kenyans.
Grassroots members seek clarity on 2027
Aduogo said ODM had agreed to cooperate with UDA in the broad-based government. However, he maintained that the relationship must respect ODM’s standing and independence.
He cited the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s position that cooperation with Ruto would last through his first term. ODM therefore needed a fresh decision on its direction beyond that period, Aduogo argued.
He also warned against unauthorised individuals claiming to speak for ODM. The members urged recognised party leaders to consult grassroots supporters before deciding whether to continue cooperation or take another political path.
