Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda has hinted at the possibility of President William Ruto fielding a running mate from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party as part of a coalition agreement for the 2027 elections.
Speaking on Daybreak, the senator claimed that the ruling government and the opposition would work on a framework that would guide the coalition’s structure.
He claimed that ODM’s support for President Ruto’s bid would be the game-changer for the presidential elections.
“ODM will support President Ruto for a second term. On February 28, 2025, he will become the AUC chairperson. He will go to Addis Ababa, I will remain here with the SG. ODM will be a major player,” Ojienda noted.
“The coalition agreement may include the possibility of having a deputy president from ODM.”
The Senator added that other parties would join the coalition in the leadup to the elections, hinting that Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka could enter the fray.
“Wiper is looking for partners. Don’t be surprised if, in a few months, Kalonzo joins the government,” he speculated.
His remarks did not sit well with ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna who pointed out that the ODM’s position is left to the prerogative of the party leader, Raila Odinga.
Sifuna noted that Raila, who’s preparing for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship slated for next month, left clear instructions for the ODM to retain its identity.
He added that the ruling government has become unpopular due to its policies in the past two years and a possible coalition with ODM would not save the ship from sinking.
“If you want to know the party’s position on matters coalition, listen to what Raila Odinga is saying. He has left specific instructions. First, ODM to retain its identity. Two, we have not given up the quest to acquire power, otherwise, you fold up your party and go,” Sifuna pointed out.
“We’re celebrating 20 years and every single election, we’ve had a candidate. The members have freedom of speech, let them air their views. The party leader gives the position of the party.”
The SG confirmed that the ODM party has not signed any agreement with the ruling government, despite the remarks made by other party members.
“I have not signed any agreement and there’s no agreement between ODM and UDA in 2027. If you’re unpopular, it doesn’t matter how many leaders you bring around you. We will lose the elections even if we support him,” he added.
