ODM Distances Itself from Claims of Coalition with Kenya Kwanza

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has denied reports that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has formed a coalition with President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration, insisting the party’s cooperation with the government is based solely on shared policy priorities.

Speaking on NTV on 27 October, Nassir stated that ODM’s engagement with the national government is issue-driven and not part of any formal political alliance. “We actually do not have a coalition agreement. We never signed a coalition agreement. We never signed anything else,” he said, rejecting claims that the opposition party had joined the ruling coalition.

Nassir explained that ODM’s collaboration with Kenya Kwanza focuses on ten key national issues identified as essential to improving the lives of Kenyans. These discussions, he noted, were guided by mutual interest rather than a binding political arrangement. 

“We have an agreement that there are 10 issues affecting Kenyans. We listed them, sat down, and said, Let’s implement these issues,” he added.

His remarks come amid speculation about ODM’s direction following the death of party founder and long-time leader Raila Odinga. The party is currently navigating a leadership transition and reassessing its strategy ahead of the 2027 General Election.

During a regional meeting in Nyanza on 24 October, Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga was endorsed as acting party leader. The gathering, attended by elected officials, elders, and religious leaders, marked a key step in consolidating ODM’s support base. 

“I am very proud of my people. I am proud that you have given me this support. I promise not to let you down. This is not about uniting the Luo; it is about uniting Kenya,” Oburu said during his acceptance.

The National Executive Committee (NEC) later ratified his appointment, tasking him with guiding the party through its transitional period. His leadership begins as ODM seeks to redefine its role in national politics while maintaining constructive engagement with the government.

ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has also reaffirmed that the party intends to field its own presidential candidate in 2027. He stressed that its cooperation with the government is limited to development matters and does not amount to a political merger.