Pressure Mounts on Ruto as ODM Demands Presidency or Deputy Presidency in 2027
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has intensified political negotiations ahead of the 2027 General Election by declaring that it will settle for nothing less than either the presidency or the deputy presidency in any future political arrangement. The demand, coming after the party joined the broad-based government, has shifted political discourse from cooperation to negotiations over power-sharing at the highest level.
Political analysts say ODM is entering the negotiations from a position of considerable influence, arguing that President William Ruto cannot easily ignore the party’s demands if he hopes to secure a second term. According to political analyst Wafula Wawire, ODM remains a critical political force with substantial support in its traditional strongholds, making it an indispensable ally for any successful presidential campaign.
Wawire argues that President Ruto’s re-election prospects will depend heavily on his ability to consolidate support in ODM-dominated regions, particularly Western Kenya, where political competition is expected to intensify. He also noted that the growing influence of the opposition’s “Linda Mwananchi” movement presents an additional challenge, warning that any political miscalculation could weaken the President’s chances in the next election.
Should ODM secure the deputy presidency through future coalition negotiations, speculation has already emerged over possible candidates. Wawire identified Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya as one of the strongest contenders for the position, although the party insists no names have been formally discussed.
Kakamega Governor and ODM County Chairman Fernandes Barasa clarified that the party’s current focus is on securing one of the country’s top two offices rather than identifying an individual to occupy it. According to Barasa, the decision on who will eventually fly the party’s flag for either position will be made by ODM delegates through the party’s National Delegates Convention at the appropriate time.
Barasa emphasized that while many party members may eventually express interest in the position, ODM’s immediate priority is ensuring that either the presidency or deputy presidency is reserved for the party in any future coalition agreement.
ODM’s latest position is expected to complicate coalition-building efforts within the broad-based government. Political observers note that if ODM maintains its demand for one of the top leadership positions, Kenya Kwanza will be forced to balance the party’s expectations against competing interests from other regions, particularly Mount Kenya, where several leaders have publicly insisted that the deputy presidency should remain within the region.
As political realignments continue to gather momentum ahead of 2027, negotiations over power-sharing are expected to play a central role in shaping future alliances, with ODM’s latest demands adding a new dimension to the race for State House.
