Ruto and Oburu Meet ODM, UDA Officials Amid Zoning Dispute Ahead of 2027
William Ruto and Oburu Oginga have moved to calm rising tensions that threatened to strain the working relationship between the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
The two parties formalized a cooperation agreement in March 2025, following signals from the late Raila Odinga indicating a possible alliance with Ruto ahead of the 2027 general election.
However, the political landscape shifted significantly after Raila’s death in October, leaving ODM in a period of uncertainty and internal reorganization.
Following the transition, Oburu Oginga took over the leadership of ODM, tasked with guiding the party through a sensitive phase while maintaining its strategic direction.
During his tenure, concerns began to emerge within sections of ODM. Some party members accused UDA of attempting to expand its influence into regions traditionally regarded as ODM strongholds.
ODM leaders argued that UDA’s move to field candidates in these areas undermines the spirit of their working agreement.
In response, UDA maintained that it operates within a democratic framework that allows it to field candidates across the country, regardless of any existing political arrangements.
The ruling party emphasized that its nationwide engagement should not be interpreted as hostility, but rather as part of its broader political mandate.
Key Leaders Present at the Talks
Oburu was accompanied by several senior ODM figures, including:
- Gladys Wanga, the party’s national chairperson
- Abdulswamad Nassir, deputy party leader
- Catherine Omanyo, acting secretary general
- Junet Mohamed, elections director
Their presence underscored the weight of the discussions and the urgency of resolving the emerging disagreements.
Beyond zoning disputes, ODM has also raised demands regarding power-sharing within the partnership.
A section of party leaders, aligned with Oburu, has pushed for the deputy president position as a key condition for supporting Ruto’s re-election bid. Some have gone further, calling for ODM to secure up to 50% of government representation in any future arrangement.
The talks reflect growing pressure within the alliance, as both parties attempt to balance cooperation with political competition.
How these issues are resolved could significantly shape the future of the ODM–UDA partnership and influence the broader political direction heading into the 2027 elections.