Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders have defended the party’s broad-based political arrangement with President William Ruto, insisting that ODM remains strong ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Speaking during a delegates’ consultative meeting in Funyula, Busia County, on Sunday, October 11, ODM chairperson Gladys Wanga, Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya and Suna East MP Junet Mohamed maintained that the party would continue competing for elective seats across the country while supporting Ruto’s presidential bid.

ODM Rules Out Automatic Tickets

Oparanya said aspirants would have to participate in party nominations rather than receive automatic tickets. Junet promised that the nomination process would be free, fair and transparent.

The leaders also dismissed suggestions that ODM had weakened following the death of longtime party leader Raila Odinga in October 2025.

Internal Differences Persist

The meeting comes amid disagreements over ODM’s cooperation with the government. Some party figures support the arrangement, while others favour a stronger opposition stance.

The debate is likely to shape ODM’s unity, candidate selection and political strategy as the 2027 elections approach.