Kenya: Ruto presents UDA and ODM as government partners
During his visit to Kisumu on Sunday, September 13, William Ruto presented the UDA and ODM as partners in the expanded government and promised to preserve Raila Odinga's political legacy.
On Sunday, September 13, Kenyan President William Ruto introduced his party, the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), alongside the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), as partners within the expanded government, pledging to uphold the political legacy of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Speaking at a church service at the Voice of Salvation and Healing Church in Mamboleo, William Ruto stated that Raila Odinga could not be replaced and expressed his commitment to preserving both his political legacy and the party he led for many years.
The head of state asserted that the UDA and ODM should no longer be viewed as competitors within the political framework supporting the expanded government. However, he did not announce any merger of the two parties or a new formal coalition at this event.
The rapprochement between William Ruto and Raila Odinga is based on a cooperation framework signed in March 2025. The Kenyan presidency clarified at that time that this agreement did not equate to the formation of a political union and specifically addressed issues such as inclusion, public integrity, youth employment, and governance.
The collaboration between the UDA and ODM continues to involve discussions regarding nominations and candidate zoning ahead of the 2027 elections, a matter that has recently revealed differences among leaders of the two parties.
William Ruto began a tour of the Luo Nyanza region on Sunday. Stops are planned in Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay, and Migori during this trip, which is set to continue until September 16.
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