The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has intensified its demand to hold the deputy president position in any political alliance with President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Speaking at a Turkana delegates meeting on July 29, 2026, ODM Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati emphasized that the running mate slot must remain with ODM should Ruto pursue re-election under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) banner.

ODM’s Stance on Deputy Presidency

Arati asserted that ODM has several qualified leaders capable of serving as deputy president, including Energy Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, and ODM Party Leader Raila Odinga. He clarified that the party would internally decide on the candidate for the position.

  • Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati: "If Ruto runs for president, the deputy position is ours and we will not concede it."
  • Arati added that ODM would only relinquish the slot if Ruto contests under ODM or if Deputy President Kithure Kindiki leaves UDA to join ODM.

Junet Mohamed Endorses Oparanya

National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed recently endorsed Wycliffe Oparanya as ODM’s preferred candidate for deputy president, highlighting his political experience and close association with Raila Odinga.

Kindiki Reaffirms Mt Kenya’s Role in Government

In response, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki urged the Mt Kenya region to remain united behind the Kenya Kwanza administration. Speaking at the 11th Annual Meru Dairy Farmers Field Day, Kindiki insisted the region’s place in government is secure despite political debates.

He remarked, "You do not build a house, complete it, furnish it, and then abandon it to go and live in the forest. We are not going anywhere. We are in government to stay."

Political Implications

The ongoing exchanges reflect rising tensions and negotiations over power-sharing arrangements between ODM and UDA ahead of the 2027 elections. ODM continues to assert its claim for a significant role in the next government coalition, while UDA leaders maintain their position.