Junet Mohamed Demands Larger Share of Government for ODM Ahead of 2027

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has called on President William Ruto to clearly state what positions the party would receive in any coalition arrangement ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

National Assembly Minority Whip Junet Mohamed said ODM’s support should be matched with clear and binding guarantees on power-sharing. He spoke on 21 December during a condolence visit to the family of the late former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo.

Mohamed said ODM would not offer political support without firm commitments. He urged the President to put specific positions on the table and indicate how many roles would be allocated to the party under a coalition agreement.

He rejected views within ODM suggesting the party should support the President without conditions, saying that any negotiations must be guided by defined demands. While acknowledging that President Ruto has appointed several ODM members to Cabinet positions and initiated development projects in ODM strongholds, Mohamed said these steps were not sufficient. 

He argued that ODM’s size and national reach justify a larger share of government positions and resources. Mohamed also made it clear that ODM does not intend to return to the opposition. 

He said the party remains open to working within a broad-based government, provided its conditions are met. He added that ODM would not associate with tribal politics but was willing to engage in talks with Kenya Kwanza to reach a mutual understanding.

His remarks echo recent statements by Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga, who has also called for additional Cabinet appointments and a stronger role for ODM in the next administration. The party has further urged the President to fully implement the 10-point agenda outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding between ODM and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

President Ruto has encouraged ODM to remain united as discussions on a possible 2027 coalition continue. Speaking at the 5th Piny Luo cultural gathering, he said the party’s strength would play an important role in shaping the country’s political direction ahead of the elections.