Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai has criticised calls by leaders within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to demand the deputy president position in ongoing negotiations with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

Taking to his official X account on Saturday, February 14, 2026, Alai termed the move a “very big mistake”.

He further dismissed the deputy president’s office as politically insignificant, warning ODM against prioritising what he described as an ineffective position.

“It’s a very big mistake for ODM to demand the deputy presidency. Very huge mistake,” Alai said.

Power and influence

He went further to argue that deputy positions in Kenya generally lack real power or influence.

“I wish that they listen. Deputy Anything is the most useless seat in Kenya. Sijui Deputy Chairman, Deputy OCS, Deputy OCPD, Deputy Governor etc… Useless SEAT!” he added.

Alai’s remarks come amid growing calls from a section of ODM leaders for the party to negotiate for the Deputy President slot in any potential arrangement with UDA ahead of the 2027 General Election.

ODM’s demand for DP seat

A section of ODM leaders has already declared that the party will demand the Deputy President position in ongoing negotiations with UDA, insisting the slot must be awarded to a woman from ODM.

Speaking on Saturday, February 14, 2026, during the party’s Linda Ground tour in Mombasa and Kwale counties, the leaders rallied supporters behind a push for greater representation in any power-sharing arrangement that may emerge from the talks.

Migori Woman Representative Fatuma Mohammed said women voters would play a decisive role in the 2027 General Election and must be considered in top leadership negotiations.

“And we are telling you, Your Excellency, if you want your government to succeed, if you want a second term, look at women. Women are 28 million voters,” she said. “As we go for negotiations, me as a woman, with my fellow 28 million women, we are saying the Deputy President will, shall, and, Inshaallah, be a woman from ODM.”

Her remarks were echoed by Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, who challenged the notion that ODM must permanently remain in opposition while others benefit from government positions.

“Kuna wale wanaona ODM lazima ibaki kwa mapambano. Ati sisi tupambane wao wakule. Ati tupambane, huku wengine wakiingia kwa serikali. Tuendelee kupambana ama tutafute njia ya kuingia kwa serikali?” Wanga said.

Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo confirmed that the party leadership was already engaged in the talks, revealing that party leader Oburu Oginga had been sent to represent ODM in negotiations.

“Tumemtuma party leader wetu Oburu Oginga katika mazungumzo na watu ambao wamekomaa akili kama our chair Gladys Wanga,” Omanyo remarked.