Rarieda Member of Parliament Otiende Amollo has urged the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to negotiate a new, structured working arrangement with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during an interview on Spice FM, Amollo said that while ODM remains part of the broad-based government formed through the Ruto–Raila agreement, merging with UDA would undermine Kenya’s multiparty democracy and dilute ODM’s political identity.
“ODM should remain a distinct entity,” Amollo asserted. “If President Ruto still desires ODM’s support in 2027, there must be a structured negotiation outlining the gains made so far and identifying new bargaining points. We cannot do that if we allow ourselves to be swallowed by UDA.”
The legislator emphasized that any cooperation between the two parties should be founded on clear and negotiated terms, ensuring both effective governance and fair political representation. He also clarified that President Ruto’s recent remarks at Raila Odinga’s burial, where he pledged to “protect and guide ODM,” should not be misconstrued as him assuming leadership of the party.
“In my understanding, the President cannot be the spokesperson for ODM. For UDA to be strong, ODM must also remain strong,” he said.
Amollo further stressed that President Ruto should adopt a non-interference approach in ODM’s internal affairs, allowing it to function independently within the broader political framework.
He dismissed claims that a new Luo political kingpin must immediately emerge following Raila Odinga’s passing, noting that leadership in the region would evolve organically over time.
The MP expressed confidence that the Ruto-Raila political pact would remain intact, revealing that the joint committee established by the two leaders to oversee the ten-point agreement was still active and making steady progress.
