NAIROBI, Kenya—A wave of excitement swept through the streets outside the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on Friday morning as hundreds of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) supporters gathered in anticipation of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s major announcement.
Dressed in the party’s signature orange colors, the crowd erupted into song and dance, chanting pro-ODM slogans and waving banners bearing images of Raila and President William Ruto.
Their enthusiasm signaled mounting expectations of a formalized working agreement between ODM and Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration.
ODM supporters march towards KICC ahead of President Ruto and Raila major announcement of their 50-50 share deal.
Reports indicate that the two factions are set to extend their broad-government arrangement, a move that could reshape Kenya’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
As the political drama unfolded at KICC, President Ruto summoned Kenya Kwanza lawmakers to the State House for a high-level meeting.
Sources indicate that the agenda revolves around solidifying ODM’s place within the government and rallying support for the expanded coalition.
If formalized, this new alliance would mark a significant shift in Kenya’s opposition politics, further blurring the lines between the ruling coalition and the opposition.
While supporters see it as a step towards national unity, critics argue it could weaken democratic checks and balances.