ODM Sets Conditions for Coalition Talks, Demands Equal Power Sharing With UDA Ahead of 2027 Elections

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has set firm conditions before engaging in any coalition talks ahead of the 2027 general elections. 

Party chairperson Gladys Wanga said ODM will only join an alliance that guarantees equal sharing of power with President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

Speaking at a rally in Dandora on Sunday, Wanga confirmed that the party has agreed to send Oburu Odinga to negotiate directly with President Ruto. She emphasized that any talks must deliver a clear fifty-fifty power arrangement between the two parties.

Wanga argued that the proposal ensures fairness and respect, insisting that ODM remains the strongest political party in the country and should not be treated as a junior partner in any political agreement.

She also outlined other conditions that must be met before a deal is signed. These include full implementation of the ten-point agenda, adoption of the NADCO report, and compensation for victims of post-election protests.

The ODM chairperson dismissed claims that party leaders were secretly negotiating personal deals, stating that the party is “not for sale” and will not be auctioned under her leadership.

Her remarks echoed statements made by ODM leaders in recent weeks. The party has repeatedly demanded dignity and balance in any engagement with UDA as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.

Earlier in January, Oburu Odinga made similar demands in Kakamega, saying ODM would negotiate only from a position of strength and ensure the party receives its fair share in government.

ODM leaders argue that the current broad-based arrangement is insufficient, noting that the four cabinet positions currently held by the party do not reflect its popularity and national support. 

They want future agreements to include more cabinet slots, senior government roles, and control of key state agencies to ensure real influence in decision-making.

Supporters at the Dandora rally welcomed Wanga’s firm stance, saying ODM must avoid past mistakes where it entered coalitions without clear guarantees.

The push for equal power sharing draws comparisons with previous political deals. 

In 2013, Uhuru Kenyatta and William Ruto agreed on a fifty-fifty arrangement between TNA and URP, which saw both parties share cabinet positions and senior appointments equally. ODM leaders now want a similar structure respected in any future coalition talks with UDA.