Orange Democratic Movement Divisions Could Derail 2027 Coalition Talks, Warns Otiende Amollo

By : Mweru Mbugua

Rarieda Member of Parliament Otiende Amollo has raised concerns over deepening divisions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), warning that ongoing wrangles could undermine the party’s pre-election negotiations ahead of the 2027 General Election

Speaking in Rarieda on Sunday, the ODM deputy chairman reaffirmed his loyalty to the party but acknowledged that it is increasingly split into rival factions with conflicting political strategies

According to Amollo, one camp is keen on consolidating support to unseat President William Ruto in 2027, while another faction is backing his re-election bid. The lawmaker cautioned that the internal standoff risks weakening ODM’s bargaining power in any potential coalition arrangements

“As a party, we must engage in structured negotiations before committing ourselves to any alliance,” he said, emphasizing that agreements must be formalized in writing to prevent future disputes

Amollo warned against offering unconditional support to President Ruto, arguing that any cooperation should be anchored in clear, enforceable terms. He cited the fallout between President Ruto and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua as a lesson on the dangers of fragile political pacts

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The legislator also pushed back against calls to expel members expressing divergent views, noting that ODM’s founding leader, Raila Odinga, had long championed inclusivity and internal dialogue

Amollo further observed that the party has yet to agree on who should spearhead coalition talks or what key issues should top the negotiation agenda, terming the current infighting premature and counterproductive

With the 2027 polls drawing closer, ODM now faces mounting pressure to resolve its internal differences and present a united front in the evolving political landscape