NAIROBI, Kenya – Political tensions are rising ahead of the 2027 general election after leaders allied to Deputy President Kithure Kindiki issued a stark warning to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) over claims that the DP slot should not be negotiated away in forthcoming power‑sharing talks.
Alice Ng’ang’a, Member of Parliament for Thika Constituency and a close ally of the DP, said the position of Deputy President is “non‑negotiable”.
“Kiti ya Deputy President hatupeani ODM — ni non‑negotiable. Wakipewa kiti ya Deputy President, sisi Mt Kenya tutatoka broad‑based,” Ng’ang’a said.
She warned the vote-rich Mt Kenya bloc would exit the broad‑based coalition if the DP slot were given to ODM.
The remarks have thrust the DP position into the spotlight as ODM leader Oburu Oginga has signalled interest in more inclusive power‑sharing arrangements.
Kiti ya Deputy President hatupeani ODM ni non-negotiable. Wakipewa kiti ya Deputy President, sisi MT Kenya tutatoka broad-based. — Alice Nganga
ODM leaders are understood to be considering strategic talks with the ruling United Democratic Alliance ahead of the 2027 polls, but positions on key tickets remain uncertain.
Political analysts say the intervention by Kindiki’s allies highlights intense jockeying for influence within the UDA‑led coalition, particularly as President William Ruto prepares for re‑election.
The DP’s camp — including Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku — has been vocal in asserting that the Deputy President’s seat should remain within the ruling coalition and not be a bargaining chip in negotiations.
However, some political commentators argue that Kindiki’s influence within the broader power structure remains constrained by the political legacy and continued sway of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who retains significant grassroots support within UDA and among Kenya Kwanza supporters.
“Kindiki does not have control of the Mountain as a bargaining power because of the lingering influence and political capital of Gachagua,” Meshack Mayende, senior political analyst, told Y News.
“That limits the extent to which he can impose terms on coalition discussions.”
The MP’s statement is likely to test cohesion within the UDA‑led Kenya Kwanza alliance at a critical moment.
While Ruto’s camp seeks to build a broader national coalition to secure another term, internal disputes over ticket-sharing and leadership roles have periodically threatened to split the bloc.
