ODM to Stop Negotiating With Ruto on Certain Things

The Orange Democratic Movement Secretary-General and National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed has declared that the party will no longer negotiate on key areas, particularly its parliamentary strength, during ongoing political engagements with United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

Junet spoke on Friday during the party’s Special National Delegates Conference (NDC) held at the Jamhuri Grounds in Nairobi, where ODM leaders and officials gathered to elect party representatives and chart the party’s political direction ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The high-stakes meeting comes at a time when ODM has been exploring possible coalition arrangements, including talks with UDA, as part of a broader strategy to consolidate political support.

Addressing delegates, Junet urged party members to respect internal structures and decisions made by party organs.

He argued that discipline would define ODM’s strength moving forward.

“I want to urge our members and leaders — once the party organs have made a decision, please abide by those decisions. This is how we can be a party of rules and a party of the constitution.” Junet said.

He continued by stressing the importance of unity and adherence to party processes, warning against actions that could weaken the party from within.

“We must be a party that follows the constitution and respects what our organs decide.” He added.

Hardline Stance on Negotiations

Junet then shifted focus to ODM’s engagement with other political parties, especially UDA. He made it clear that while dialogue remains open, there are limits to what ODM is willing to concede.

“Anyone in this country who wants to negotiate with ODM — we will not negotiate on our parliamentary strength,” he said.

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The remarks signal a significant shift toward a firmer negotiating position, particularly on issues such as seat-sharing and legislative influence.

ODM leaders have previously indicated willingness to engage in coalition talks, but only under terms that safeguard the party’s interests.

ODM Asserts Political Dominance Ahead of 2027

At the same time, Junet reaffirmed ODM’s position as a major political force and dismissed any notion that the party would play a secondary role in future alliances.

“ODM must be respected. We will have a presidential candidate in 2027.” He added.

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His statement underscores the party’s intention to remain competitive at the highest level, even as coalition discussions continue.

As the NDC concluded, ODM delegates appeared united around a message of internal discipline and political independence.

The resolutions made at the conference are expected to shape the party’s strategy in the coming months, particularly as Kenya’s political landscape begins to realign ahead of the next general election.

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