By James Murimi - Reporter
Kenya, 16 April 2026 - The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has put its coalition partner, the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), on notice over what it describes as rising political hostility, even as it unveiled an aggressive plan to consolidate its base ahead of the next General Election.
Meeting on Thursday under the chairmanship of Party Leader Senator Oburu Oginga, the ODM Central Committee warned against “unwarranted public utterances” by senior UDA officials, saying such remarks risk destabilising the fragile working relationship between the two parties.
The committee did not mince words: “As a Party that believes in its principles, ideology and foundation, we demand respect from the UDA Party.”
The statement signals growing unease within ODM ranks despite the existing cooperation framework anchored on the 10-point agenda and the NADCO report.
At the same time, the party turned its fire on the biting cost of living, with fuel prices emerging as a major concern. While acknowledging the global nature of the crisis, ODM challenged the government to do more to shield citizens from the economic strain.
“Kenyans are concerned about the increase in fuel prices… we continue to push the government to do more to cushion Kenyans,” the committee said.
On reforms and accountability, ODM welcomed the allocation of Sh2 billion in the Supplementary Budget for compensation of victims of police brutality and protests, terming it a key step in implementing bipartisan agreements.
However, it urged the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights to expedite the process, warning that delays would undermine public confidence.
Inside the party, ODM struck a confident tone, citing major milestones in its internal reorganisation. It hailed the National Delegates Convention held on March 27 at Nairobi’s ASK Showgrounds as a success, and lauded the National Elections Coordinating Committee (NECC) for delivering largely peaceful grassroots elections now nearing completion.
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With 98 per cent of the exercise concluded, the party called on remaining regions to resolve disputes swiftly through internal mechanisms.
The Central Committee also signalled the start of an intensified nationwide mobilisation campaign aimed at expanding ODM’s political footprint beyond its traditional strongholds.
“We have no choice but to make bigger our identity which remains in the hearts of the majority of Kenyans,” the statement read.
In a clear message to aspirants, ODM pledged a level playing field in its upcoming nominations, declaring that “there will be no sacred cows for any position sought.”
A digital portal for aspirants will soon be launched, marking the beginning of the party’s formal preparations for the 2027 electoral contest.
Even as it navigates tensions within the ruling arrangement, ODM’s latest resolutions point to a party seeking to balance cooperation with competition—while quietly positioning itself for the next political battle.