ODM Dismisses Rift Claims, Says 2027 Coalition Talks Will Guide Deputy President Choice
By Emmanuel Jumaah
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has dismissed claims that the party is falling apart over disagreements surrounding the selection of a potential running mate ahead of Kenya’s 2027 General Election.
ODM Secretary-General Catherine Omanyo, said,the party remains united and will undertake extensive internal consultations before settling on a candidate for the deputy president position, should the party secure an opportunity to nominate one under a coalition arrangement.
Omanyo said the process would be guided by consultations within the party and the broader political coalition rather than individual interests or premature political declarations.
Her remarks come amid growing political debate over the alliances that could shape the 2027 presidential race, with parties and politicians increasingly positioning themselves for possible coalition partnerships.
"During our ongoing consultations within ODM, it has become evident that several members believe they are qualified to vie for the position of Deputy President. They are currently engaging in political mobilization across the country. We respect this as part of democratic competition. Subsequently, the party will reconvene internally and nominate one candidate from among them to represent ODM for the position of Deputy President." ~ Catherine Omanyo
Omanyo also turned her criticism toward opposition leaders, accusing them of failing to present Kenyans with a clear development agenda.
According to her, opposition politics should go beyond criticism and political confrontation and instead focus on issues that directly affect ordinary citizens, including economic development and improved public services.
“Kenya needs leaders who can articulate a clear development agenda, not politicians who spend their time trading accusations and engaging in endless political confrontations,” ~ Catherine Omanyo.
The ODM official also weighed in on the growing debate over visits to State House, criticising politicians who discourage leaders and ordinary citizens from meeting President William Ruto at the official residence.
She argued that State House should not be viewed as a restricted political space and maintained that every Kenyan has the right to visit, present their views and engage the President on matters affecting their communities and the country at large saying rhat political differences should not prevent Kenyans from engaging the government when such engagement could help advance development projects and address challenges facing citizens.
Her comments come as Kenya's political landscape gradually begins to take shape ahead of the 2027 General Election, with parties expected to intensify negotiations over alliances, leadership positions, and coalition strategies.
As the 2027 race draws closer, the ability of political parties to maintain unity while negotiating powerful coalition interests could prove just as important as the individual candidates they eventually put forward.
