Wanga Defends ODM–Ruto Deal Amid Internal Party Pressure

Senior leaders of the Orange Democratic Movement have said that the party’s cooperation with the ruling United Democratic Alliance will continue only if the terms of their agreement are respected, including protection of ODM’s political strongholds.

Speaking at the funeral of veteran journalist Festus Amimo in Kisumu County, ODM chairperson Gladys Wanga said the partnership is governed by a written agreement signed at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre. She said the deal bars either party from operating in the other’s traditional support bases, describing this condition as essential to ODM’s participation in government. 

Wanga added that the party would only remain in government if it remained politically strong. Her remarks followed earlier statements by ODM leader Oburu Oginga, who has called for increased representation of the party within government. 

Wanga said ODM’s immediate focus is to strengthen its internal structures, arguing that this is necessary to secure its long-term position in national politics.

Ruth Odinga also defended the party’s decision to work with UDA, saying ODM’s involvement in government was intentional and consistent with its character as a mass political movement.

She rejected claims that the arrangement showed political weakness, stating that ODM was built to endure. Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi urged both ODM and UDA to reinforce their own party structures to sustain the coalition. He said cooperation between strong parties would improve their chances of achieving clear electoral victories in the future.

However, differences have emerged over the 2027 presidential election. Senior Counsel Tom Ojienda publicly backed President William Ruto for a second term, arguing that ODM’s choice of candidate should be based on electoral viability rather than party loyalty.