NAIROBI, Kenya- Key ODM MPs have fired a warning ahead of coalition negotiations with the UDA, insisting that zoning — the pre-agreed allocation of top positions — must be respected if a coalition is to succeed.
Narok Senator Ledama ole Kina said the party has “established its ground” and will defend its political space against any attempt by partners to dominate it.
“Zoning is non-negotiable. We will not allow our areas of influence to be compromised,” he warned, signaling firm resistance to any unilateral moves by coalition partners.
ODM Secretary General Catherine Omanyo added that while ODM does not fear competition, coalition talks must respect each party’s strongholds.
“When forming alliances, we identify our respective strengths and field candidates only in our strongholds. Partner parties must do the same. This is how genuine democracy is upheld,” Omanyo said.
MP Peter Kaluma explained that zoning is essential for electoral success and the sustainability of any coalition.
“If parties do not protect agreed positions like the Presidency and Deputy Presidency, the coalition risks losing cohesion and the ability to govern after elections,” he said.
Kaluma added that it would be “selfish” for a party to try to reserve key positions for itself while leaving partners vulnerable to competition.
Political analysts say the assertive stance by ODM MPs signals rising tension ahead of coalition negotiations with UDA, highlighting the delicate balance between ambition, party interests, and the need for strategic alliances.
With coalition talks approaching, zoning, candidate allocation, and power-sharing arrangements are expected to dominate discussions as parties seek to secure both influence and electoral success in the 2027 general elections.
