NAIROBI, Kenya – The race toward the 2027 General Election has gathered momentum after Orange Democratic Movement(ODM) formally opened applications for aspirants seeking to fly the party’s ticket in the next polls, including those eyeing the presidency.
In a notice issued by the party’s National Elections Coordinating Committee, ODM announced that the nomination window is now open for candidates seeking elective positions ranging from president, governor and senator to woman representative, member of the National Assembly and member of the county assembly.
The Raila Odinga-led party said the exercise will be conducted in accordance with its Constitution and internal nomination guidelines, with applications set to close on June 30, 2026.
Prospective candidates have been directed to submit their applications through ODM’s online portal, while party members were urged to verify their membership status by dialling 483036# ahead of the nomination exercise.
“To guarantee a credible process, we urge our party members to continuously engage the National Elections Coordinating Committee for any clarifications,” the notice stated.
The announcement comes against the backdrop of deepening political realignments ahead of 2027, particularly after the United Democratic Alliance National Executive Committee resolved to formally pursue coalition talks with ODM.
During a National Executive Committee meeting chaired by President William Ruto on January 14, UDA acknowledged ODM’s decision to initiate structured engagement within the Kenya Kwanza coalition framework, signaling a potential political rapprochement between the two outfits.
The party subsequently mandated President Ruto to spearhead negotiations aimed at crafting a broader pre-election alliance ahead of the 2027 vote.
“The NEC mandated the UDA party leader to establish mechanisms for structured engagement with the ODM party to achieve the desired outcome,” the communiqué said.
The developments have further fueled speculation over the shape of the 2027 presidential contest, amid growing debate within ODM ranks over whether the party should back President Ruto’s re-election bid or field its own presidential candidate.
