The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has reignited debate over the deputy president slot in the 2027 General Election, endorsing Wycliffe Oparanya as President William Ruto’s preferred running mate. This move challenges the incumbent Deputy President Kithure Kindiki’s claim to the position.
At a rally in Malava, Kakamega County, ODM leaders, led by Acting Secretary General Catherine Omanyo, insisted that the deputy presidency should be allocated to ODM as part of a power-sharing agreement with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA). Junet Mohamed stated, "UDA should produce the president while ODM will produce the DP, and we will present Wycliffe Oparanya." Similarly, Khwisero MP Aseka Miradi emphasized that ODM’s support for Ruto hinges on securing the deputy president role.
Oparanya, currently the Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary, is viewed by ODM as a strong candidate to consolidate support for Ruto in Western Kenya due to his longstanding alliance with the late Raila Odinga and his influence in the region.
Meanwhile, Deputy President Kindiki has firmly maintained his position as Ruto’s running mate, dismissing the ODM claims. Speaking in Meru, he called his role in government "non-negotiable" and urged the Mt Kenya region to back Ruto’s re-election campaign.
The political tension is further complicated by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s remarks alleging that Ruto is deliberately undermining Kindiki to force him out, drawing parallels with his own experience before his removal from office.
Political analyst Samuel Owida noted that the ODM demands are exerting pressure on Kindiki, who must now demonstrate his value to Ruto and secure support from the vote-rich Mt Kenya region amid growing competition.
A recent Infotrak survey indicated Kindiki as the favored running mate with 34% support, followed by Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga at 11%, and ODM leader Oburu Odinga at 5%, while over 37% of respondents remained undecided.
