NAIROBI, Kenya — The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) plans to field candidates in nearly all elective positions in the 2027 General Election, with its presidential strategy still under internal deliberations, Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Ali Joho has said.
Speaking to journalists on Saturday, Joho indicated that the party is positioning itself to play a central role in the next administration, even as discussions continue on whether ODM will field a presidential candidate or back a coalition arrangement.
He suggested the party is inclined toward supporting President William Ruto for re-election, while pursuing the deputy president position as part of a broader political agreement.
“As ODM, we will present candidates across the board and actively campaign to ensure strong representation,” Joho said, adding that the party’s nationwide grassroots network gives it confidence to compete independently in parliamentary and local races.
The former Mombasa governor said ODM would focus on strengthening its presence across the country through a robust campaign aimed at increasing representation in both national and county leadership positions.
Although he did not speak as the party’s official spokesperson, Joho expressed confidence in ODM’s internal leadership structures to guide the party’s political direction and campaign strategy ahead of the 2027 polls.
Addressing speculation about his potential bid for the deputy presidency, Joho downplayed early political positioning, saying his immediate focus remains on delivering on his national responsibilities.
“Our focus at the moment is on uniting Kenyans and driving development that benefits all citizens,” he said.
Joho also criticised former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over calls to consolidate the Mt Kenya region into a unified political voting bloc.
He argued that such mobilisation strategies are not unique and that other regions also possess the capacity to organise and influence national politics.
He further noted that the country has not yet entered an active political season, emphasising that most leaders are currently focused on governance.
According to Joho, intense political activity is expected closer to the election period.
