ODM Zoning Proposal Stirs Tensions in Broad-Based Government

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has called for zoning arrangements within the broad-based government.

The agreement would prevent the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) from fielding candidates in ODM strongholds during the 2027 elections. ODM leaders argue that zoning is necessary to protect the party’s political influence as it prepares to back President William Ruto’s re-election. 

They say maintaining control of regions such as Nyanza, Western Kenya and the Coast would allow ODM to retain leverage in a future administration. UDA leaders, however, have rejected the proposal, warning that it undermines open political competition and risks destabilising the alliance.

The push for zoning comes as ODM faces internal strains and growing competition from emerging regional parties. In Gusii, the United Progressive Alliance has gained traction, while the Democratic Action Party of Kenya has expanded its presence in Western Kenya. 

Smaller parties, including David Ochieng’s Movement for Growth and Democracy, are also positioning themselves to attract disgruntled ODM members, many of whom have criticised the party’s nomination processes as unfair. ODM national chairperson Gladys Wanga has been the strongest advocate of zoning. 

Speaking in Kisumu County, she said the coalition agreement with UDA does not allow political encroachment into ODM zones of influence. Her remarks have unsettled some ODM members who fear exclusion from nominations, while UDA leaders have vowed to contest seats across Luo Nyanza. 

UDA officials have dismissed the zoning proposal as undemocratic. Former Nairobi governor Evans Kidero, now aligned with UDA, said barring candidates would deny voters choice and contradict Odinga’s commitment to pluralism. Kennedy Obuya, UDA’s Homa Bay chairperson, said the party would field candidates in Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay and Migori regardless of ODM’s position.

Within ODM, some leaders have urged the party to focus on internal reforms rather than restricting competition. Uriri MP Mark Nyamita said transparent and credible nominations are essential to retaining members, warning that flawed primaries would push aspirants to rival parties. 

Suba South MP Caroli Omondi has already said he will not seek re-election on an ODM ticket, citing long-standing concerns over the party’s nomination record.

ODM deputy leader Godfrey Osotsi has sought to play down divisions, saying the party remains strong in Western Kenya and across other regions. 

He cautioned against portraying ODM as a regional outfit and said the party must continue to represent diverse communities within the coalition. President Ruto has urged ODM leaders to prioritise unity, recalling Raila Odinga’s call for cooperation between the two parties in support of national development.