Kenya's ODM seeks deputy presidency in exchange for Ruto election support

Kenya's Orange Democratic Movement has set tough terms for backing President William Ruto in the 2027 election, signalling that it expects the deputy presidency and key municipal posts in exchange for any formal alliance.

Speaking at a political gathering at Jacaranda Grounds in Nairobi, party leaders stressed that the ruling United Democratic Alliance must fully acknowledge their movement's influence. Deputy party leader Abdulswamad Nassir told attendees that the organisation has capable figures who deserve top executive consideration, asking the crowd whether the party possessed members qualified to serve as deputy head of state. Supporters in attendance responded by chanting the name of Cabinet Secretary for Mining Hassan Joho.

The push could create friction within Kenya's ruling circles. The incumbent Deputy President, Kithure Kindiki, alongside political figures from the Mount Kenya region, is expected to resist any move to surrender the second-highest constitutional office.

The rally was organised to commemorate the first anniversary of the passing of former Prime Minister and long-serving party chief Raila Odinga, who died in October 2025. Party officials used the platform to insist that their movement remains a dominant political force across the country, particularly within the capital.

Kisii Governor Simba Arati, another deputy leader within the party, said the movement intends to field candidates for both Nairobi governor and woman representative in 2027. Arati urged youth to register in large numbers to secure broad representation in the capital. Party chairperson Gladys Wanga, who serves as Homa Bay governor, affirmed the group's ongoing commitment to broad-based political cooperation while asserting ambitions to sweep county, legislative, and assembly seats across Nairobi.

Several speakers also targeted former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who now heads the Democracy for the Citizens Party. Figures including Wanga, Arati, Suna East legislator Junet Mohamed, and Joho cautioned Gachagua against criticizing their movement or promoting division. Mohamed remarked that if critics considered the party politically finished, they should leave its internal matters alone.

Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi told the audience that the substantial crowd gathered in Nairobi proved the party's endurance following Odinga's death. He encouraged supporters hoping to carry forward the late leader's mission to stay committed to the party as negotiations over political pacts continue.