The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is currently in negotiations with Kenya Kwanza to establish clear terms of engagement with the governing coalition, ODM Executive Director Oduor Ong’wen has announced.
Ong’wen clarified that ODM has not yet joined President William Ruto’s government, despite some perceptions. He explained that the talks are still in the early stages, aimed at determining a structured way to engage effectively moving forward.
“We could not join the government without a structured form of engagement,” Ong’wen said. He made these remarks at a funeral in Alego/Usonga constituency, assuring members that the party will work to ensure the engagement is beneficial for all Kenyans.
Ong’wen also confirmed that Raila Odinga remains the party leader of ODM. He noted that Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o will only assume leadership and chair party meetings if Odinga wins the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson elections in 2025. Ong’wen defended the decision to appoint Nyong’o, citing his experience and loyalty, and emphasized that Nyong’o would not interfere with the party’s operations in Odinga’s absence.
He also referenced the lessons learned from the Ford Kenya party’s leadership issues following the death of its founder, the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, in 1994.
