National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed has indicated that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) aims to secure the deputy president position through a political arrangement with President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 general election.

Speaking at a public gathering, Junet suggested that if the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) maintains the presidency, ODM will push to claim the deputy president slot. He highlighted that ODM is preparing to form a government with President Ruto and intends to demand the deputy presidency as part of the coalition.

Endorsement of Wycliffe Oparanya

Junet Mohamed endorsed Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya as ODM’s preferred candidate for deputy president, emphasizing Oparanya’s longstanding service within ODM and his close association with party leader Raila Odinga.

He stated, “The person who has matured, served as a minister, and been our Deputy Party Leader is Wycliffe Oparanya.” His remarks were met with applause, fueling speculation about the evolving partnership between ODM and the Kenya Kwanza administration.

Oparanya’s Political Background

  • Former Governor of Kakamega County
  • Current Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs, nominated by President Ruto following the 2024 political arrangement with ODM
  • Former Deputy Party Leader of ODM and a senior figure within the party

Context of ODM-UDA Cooperation

Junet’s comments come amid ongoing discussions about the future of the ODM-UDA alliance, which leaders from both parties describe as a partnership aimed at national stability and development. However, some opposition factions criticize ODM for compromising its traditional role as a government watchdog.

ODM leader Oburu Oginga recently revealed that both parties have formed technical teams to draft a joint manifesto expected by year-end. This initiative marks a shift from previous temporary arrangements toward a formal electoral coalition.

Oburu emphasized, “Our first objective is to obtain political power. Now that we are in power, we are planning to obtain power through the main door so that we have an even greater voice within government.”