Tensions have intensified following the Orange Democratic Movement’s (ODM) insistence on securing the position of Deputy President, an assertion that has complicated Ruto’s coalition-building efforts.
In an exclusive interview with Taifa Digital, ODM’s acting party leader, Dr. Oburu Oginga, maintained that the party would not settle for anything less than the Deputy President’s post in any prospective alliance—whether within Ruto’s UDA coalition or the opposition.
“If we are to accept a subordinate position, it must not fall below the second-highest office—the Deputy President’s seat in any political structure. That is my position. We shall not accept anything less,” said Dr. Oginga.
Barely a year after President Ruto’s fallout with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua—which culminated in Gachagua’s dismissal from government in October last year—new signs of discord are emerging among leaders from the Eastern Mt. Kenya region.
These leaders are rallying behind Interior Cabinet Secretary Professor Kithure Kindiki as Ruto’s running mate for 2027.
Nonetheless, UDA has maintained that it will proceed with caution to avoid alienating any faction.
Deputy Secretary-General Omboko Milemba noted that coalition formation is a process of negotiation and compromise, affirming ODM’s right to make its preferred demands.
“In any coalition, all matters are brought to the table. If ODM meets and adopts a position, that is acceptable.
However, at the negotiation stage, both sides will present their proposals, compare notes, and harmonize their positions,” said Mr. Milemba.
He emphasized that the eventual coalition framework will be determined by mutual agreement between the parties.
However, a group of UDA legislators from Professor Kindiki’s home region dismissed ODM’s demands, warning President Ruto against sidelining Kindiki in the 2027 ticket.
“Our message to the President is clear: Eastern Mt. Kenya stands firmly with him, but our loyalty is tied to Professor Kindiki’s position in leadership,” stated Buuri MP Mugambi Rindikiri.
Speaking on Monday, the legislators cautioned that any attempt to replace Professor Kindiki would amount to political suicide for the President.
They accused ODM of attempting to pressure President Ruto into surrendering the Deputy President’s seat as part of a new power-sharing arrangement.
“Our colleagues from the Lake Region must understand that this position belongs to Eastern Mt. Kenya,.
We are prepared to defend it in 2027 and beyond. We have waited long enough for recognition and will not allow this opportunity to slip away.” said Tigania East MP Mpuru Aburi
Their warning underscores growing unease among President Ruto’s allies in Eastern Mt. Kenya following reports that ODM is demanding a top position in any coalition arrangement between the party and the Kenya Kwanza Alliance ahead of 2027.
