Nairobi — A senior Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) official has proposed an early pre‑election coalition with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ahead of the 2027 General Election. Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir, who serves as ODM’s Deputy Party Leader, said the proposal stems from a realistic assessment of the political landscape and the need for strategic partnerships. He argued that leadership requires pragmatic choices based on a clear understanding of the situation and urged his colleagues to consider formalising a pre‑election coalition with the UDA in good faith.
Nassir emphasized that politics is about making choices, favouring engagement over confrontation and strategy over sentiment. His call comes as ODM struggles with internal divisions following the death of its founding leader, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, in October. Two factions have emerged: one advocating a deeper partnership with the UDA, and another seeking to preserve Odinga’s legacy and maintain political independence. The latter faction is led by ODM Secretary‑General Edwin Sifuna, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, and Siaya Governor James Orengo. The Sifuna‑led camp maintains that the current ODM‑UDA cooperation agreement expires in 2027, after which the party would be free to chart its own course.
Meanwhile, ODM Party Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has accused former President Uhuru Kenyatta of using party insiders to undermine ODM. Minority Whip Junet Mohamed has alleged external interference in party affairs and warned of an impending “war” to expel party rebels in January. Nassir has called for a central committee meeting in January to ratify the proposed coalition pact with President William Ruto’s UDA. The development is likely to have significant implications for Kenya’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 General Election, as the proposed coalition becomes a key factor in shaping ODM’s future direction and strategy.
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