NAIROBI, Kenya
Kenya’s opposition party, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), is facing internal strategic tensions over its working relationship with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), with insiders indicating a possible rethink of the arrangement ahead of the 2027 general election.
The uncertainty follows remarks by UDA insiders suggesting the party plans to field candidates in upcoming elections across the country, including in traditional ODM strongholds — a move that has unsettled ODM strategists and raised questions about the future of cooperation between the two camps.
According to party insiders familiar with the deliberations, sections of ODM are now pushing for a more assertive political posture, including the possibility of fronting Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna as a presidential candidate in 2027.
The move, they say, would help sustain the political momentum built over the years by veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga.
The discussions come as ODM’s Central Committee held a meeting on April 16, chaired by party leader Oburu Oginga, where officials reviewed the party’s internal progress and broader national issues.
In a statement released after the बैठक, the party emphasized its intention to strengthen grassroots structures and expand its national footprint, particularly in its traditional bases.
The committee noted that grassroots elections are nearly complete, with 98% of the exercise finalized, and urged members to resolve any remaining disputes internally.
The party also announced plans to roll out youth conventions in at least 25 counties, beginning in Nairobi on April 20 and later moving to Mombasa and other regions, in what analysts interpret as an early mobilization strategy ahead of 2027.
Significantly, the Central Committee expressed concern over recent public statements by UDA officials, calling for “mutual respect” in the relationship between the two parties.
The remarks underscore growing unease within ODM over what some view as UDA’s increasingly competitive posture.
Political analysts say the emerging friction reflects deeper strategic calculations on both sides, as alliances remain fluid in the run-up to the next election cycle.
ODM’s potential shift toward an independent presidential bid could mark a significant turning point in Kenya’s political landscape if formalized.
The committee also weighed in on national concerns, including rising fuel prices, urging the government to take additional measures to cushion citizens and acknowledged ongoing efforts to compensate victims of police brutality, calling for expedited action by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights.
While ODM has not formally announced any change in its alliance position, the signals from within the party point to a recalibration that could redefine political alignments ahead of 2027.
