Eugine Wabwile 
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Chairperson Gladys Wanga has reaffirmed the party’s conditional cooperation with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), emphasizing that the alliance hinges on mutual respect and non-interference in each party’s political strongholds.
Speaking during the funeral of veteran KBC journalist Festus Amimo in Awasi, Kisumu County, Wanga disclosed that ODM’s engagement with UDA is anchored in a formal agreement signed at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC). The pact, she said, outlines clear boundaries to prevent political encroachment and safeguard each party’s base. “We will only stay in government if our party is strong,” Wanga told mourners, underscoring that the coalition’s survival depends on adherence to the agreed terms.
Her remarks come amid growing unease within ODM ranks over the party’s role in the government and its future ahead of the 2027 general election.Echoing sentiments previously expressed by ODM party leader Oburu Oginga, Wanga stressed the need to fortify the party’s internal structures, signaling a shift toward consolidation rather than concession.Ruth Odinga, a senior ODM figure, defended the party’s participation in government, asserting that ODM’s identity as a mass movement remains intact.“ODM is a movement, and movements are there to stay,” she said, dismissing claims that the party’s involvement in the current administration reflects political weakness.
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi adopted a conciliatory tone, advocating for the independent growth of both ODM and UDA to ensure a balanced and effective partnership.“ODM must be strengthened. Similarly, UDA must be strengthened,” Wandayi said. “Only strong parties can form a strong coalition.”However, internal divisions surfaced over the 2027 presidential race. Senior Counsel Tom Ojienda broke ranks by publicly endorsing President William Ruto for a second term under the current coalition framework.
He argued that ODM’s strategy should be guided by electoral viability, even if the party initially fields its own candidate.The statements reflect the increasingly strategic and conditional nature of the ODM-UDA alliance, as both parties navigate a complex political landscape ahead of the next election cycle.
