Kisii Governor and ODM Deputy Leader Simba Arati has reaffirmed that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) will remain in the current broad-based government arrangement until 2027, while keeping its sights on forming the next government.
Speaking during the ODM@20 celebrations in Mombasa on Friday, Arati urged party members to focus on Raila Odinga’s legacy and maintain unity. He addressed growing internal dissent, emphasizing that ODM is a democratic party with over 15 million members, and urged those with differing opinions to express themselves without disrupting party cohesion.
“If anyone among us is dissenting from Raila’s direction, I urge you to slow down. ODM is ours with all 15 million members. It is a democratic party. If you have a different opinion, speak out,” he said.
Arati expressed confidence that ODM will form the government in 2027, noting that the party has been in opposition for a long time. He outlined the type of leadership ODM seeks, emphasizing collaboration with like-minded individuals who respect human rights, fight corruption, and are committed to national development.
“While we are currently in a broad-based government, in 2027 we will wave the ODM flag on our own,” he added. He called on party members in the Coast region, a traditional ODM stronghold, to remain loyal to Raila Odinga’s vision.
Arati also appealed to President William Ruto, a founding member of ODM, to consider returning to the party. “If you came back, we would have you as our flag bearer. We would fulfill the promise Baba had a vision for,” he said.
Other ODM leaders have echoed this long-term ambition. Suna East MP Junet Mohamed said the party would no longer be an opposition force but would aim to either form the government alone or as part of a coalition in 2027.
Arati stressed that even while in government, ODM remains committed to justice and anti-corruption measures, urging members to protect the country’s integrity and wealth.
With unity and a clear focus on Raila Odinga’s legacy, ODM is positioning itself as a key player for the 2027 elections, signaling a forward-looking strategy beyond the current government arrangement.
