ODM Insists It Remains Independent Despite Cooperation With Ruto Government

The Orange Democratic Movement has said it remains an independent party despite its cooperation with President William Ruto’s administration.

ODM issued the clarification following a political agreement signed on 7 March between former party leader Raila Odinga and President Ruto. The pact set out a ten-point agenda for cooperation between ODM and the ruling United Democratic Alliance, aimed at joint action on key national issues.

The agreement was reached during a period of heightened political pressure, as nationwide protests in June 2024 against proposed tax measures disrupted government operations. The demonstrations, led largely by young people, placed the administration under strain and prompted talks between the two parties. The resulting accord helped reduce tensions and restore political stability.

Despite this, the arrangement has continued to generate debate within ODM. While the party gained space to influence policy, questions remain about the long-term impact of working with the government, particularly after Raila Odinga’s death in October, which ended an era of centralised leadership within the party.

Oburu Odinga’s assumption of leadership has reopened discussions on ODM’s position in the coalition. Some members argue that the agreement does not extend to supporting President Ruto’s re-election, while others believe cooperation should end before the 2027 General Election. 

Speaking during the Christmas period, Oburu described ODM’s participation in government as limited and conditional. He said the party had not joined the administration through an electoral mandate but to advance development priorities for its supporters. He stressed that ODM did not vote for President Ruto and remains distinct from the ruling party.

Oburu also signalled a shift from earlier remarks that appeared to favour Ruto’s re-election. He said ODM would concentrate on strengthening its internal structures ahead of the next election cycle and could field its own presidential candidate in 2027. He added that cooperation within government would continue only as long as it served development goals.