NAIROBI, Kenya — Democratic Action Party–Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa has revealed that discussions are ongoing with several Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders, including Edwin Sifuna, James Orengo, and Godfrey Osotsi, over a possible partnership with the United Opposition ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking on Sunday, Wamalwa said the opposition coalition remains optimistic that the three leaders will eventually align with the broader opposition movement after resolving ongoing internal matters within ODM.
“We are talking to Sifuna, Orengo, and Osotsi. For now, they have their internal ODM issues, and we believe that in the course of time, they will resolve,” Wamalwa said.
“We believe the Linda Mwananchi team will come to join us; they will be coming in as our partners, and we will be embracing them and giving them an equal opportunity.”
The remarks come amid increasing political realignments as parties and leaders position themselves ahead of the next presidential contest.
Wamalwa Confirms Presidential Bid
Wamalwa also confirmed that he will contest the presidency in 2027, saying he has already received clearance from his party to seek the country’s highest office.
“I am running for president; it is not my first time. We are now ready. As the party leader of DAP-K, I have already been cleared to run,” he said.
The former Defence Cabinet Secretary disclosed that he is among six opposition figures who have declared interest in the presidency under the emerging opposition coalition.
Besides Wamalwa, the list includes Kalonzo Musyoka, Rigathi Gachagua, Martha Karua, Fred Matiang’i, and Justin Muturi.
“We are the six of us, but we all know that we can’t all be the candidate. We will agree,” Wamalwa said.
Consensus Candidate Plan
According to the DAP-K leader, members of the opposition coalition have committed themselves to selecting a single presidential candidate through a consensus-building process.
“Whoever we agree on will only be the first amongst equals, and we will all unite behind that candidate,” he stated.
Wamalwa compared the strategy to the coalition-building model that helped unite opposition forces under the National Rainbow Coalition (NARC) ahead of the 2002 General Election.
“All for one and one for all, that is the musketeer spirit that made us succeed in the NARC movement of 2002, and that is the path we want to follow,” he said.
Focus on Opposition Unity
The opposition figure stressed that maintaining unity will be critical if the coalition hopes to mount a strong challenge in 2027.
He said coalition members had agreed to remain united throughout the election period and beyond, warning that divisions could weaken their prospects.
“We have all agreed that we must stay united until the 10th of August 2027 and beyond. We must be united behind one candidate,” Wamalwa said.
