ODM leaders have outlined key demands in ongoing political discussions with President William Ruto’s UDA, including respect for the party’s political strength and a possible claim to the Deputy President’s position.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has signalled that it expects significant political consideration in any possible pre-election agreement with President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Senior ODM leaders have indicated that the party wants its political strength recognised during negotiations, with the Deputy President’s position emerging as one of the issues being discussed.
The developments could complicate negotiations between the two political outfits as they seek to establish the terms of a possible partnership before the next General Election.
The issue gained prominence during an ODM rally at Jacaranda Grounds in Nairobi on Saturday, October 31, 2026, where party leaders addressed supporters and discussed the party’s political ambitions.
ODM raises possibility of Deputy President position
ODM Deputy Party Leader Abdulswamad Nassir challenged supporters to consider whether the party had leaders capable of serving as Deputy President in a future government.
His remarks prompted supporters at the rally to chant the name of Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho.
The exchange highlighted the possibility that ODM could seek a senior position in any political arrangement with UDA.
However, the public remarks should not be interpreted as a final agreement on who would occupy the position. The negotiations are still ongoing, and no concluded coalition deal has been announced.
The position is politically sensitive because Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and leaders associated with the Mount Kenya region may also seek to retain influence in the country’s top executive leadership.
ODM wants recognition in coalition negotiations
Nassir said UDA would need to recognise ODM’s political strength and consider its leaders for senior positions if the two parties were to establish a meaningful partnership.
The party’s position reflects its desire to avoid entering an electoral arrangement without clear commitments on representation and leadership.
ODM leaders have repeatedly argued that any partnership should take into account the party’s national presence, political structures and electoral support.
The debate has also raised questions about how the two parties would distribute responsibilities in a possible government following the 2027 elections.
ODM targets Nairobi elective seats
The Jacaranda rally also provided an opportunity for ODM leaders to outline their ambitions in Nairobi County.
Kisii Governor Simba Arati said the party intended to compete for the Nairobi governorship and other elective positions in the capital.
Homa Bay Governor and ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga similarly expressed confidence in the party’s ability to win several Nairobi seats.
The leaders urged young people to register as voters, arguing that a strong voter base would improve the party’s chances in the next election.
Their remarks suggest that ODM intends to maintain its independent political identity even as it explores a possible partnership with UDA.
Negotiations remain sensitive after Raila Odinga’s death
The ongoing discussions are taking place during a significant period for ODM following the death of its longtime leader, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, in October 2025.
The party is now facing the challenge of preserving its political influence while determining how to engage with the current administration.
Some ODM leaders have supported cooperation with Ruto, while others have insisted that the party should first secure a written agreement outlining the benefits and responsibilities of any partnership.
The debate has exposed differences over whether political support should be offered as a gesture of goodwill or made conditional on formal commitments.
What the demands mean for the 2027 election
The Deputy President’s position could become a major subject in negotiations between ODM and UDA.
If ODM formally seeks the position, the parties will have to consider how such a demand would affect existing political arrangements and the interests of other groups supporting Ruto.
The negotiations could also determine whether ODM contests the 2027 election under its own identity while supporting a joint presidential candidate.
For now, the public statements demonstrate that the party wants its interests considered before making a final commitment.
Conclusion
ODM has made it clear that any possible political partnership with UDA must recognise its influence and political ambitions. With the Deputy President’s position emerging in public discussions, the negotiations could become one of the most closely watched political developments ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Related keywords: ODM UDA talks, Hassan Joho Deputy President, Abdulswamad Nassir, Raila Odinga legacy, William Ruto 2027, ODM coalition demands.
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