Dan Maanzo hints at possible ODM alliance with Ruto or Kalonzo in 2027
By Kenneth Mwenda, November 6, 2025Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo has hinted that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) could work with either President William Ruto or Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka ahead of the next general election.
Speaking during a televised interview on the morning of Thursday, November 6, 2025, Maanzo said ODM appears open to working with different political formations, depending on how talks progress.
He referred to recent remarks by Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga, who said ODM should not settle for less than the deputy president position in any coalition arrangement.
“The 10-point agenda was headed by His Excellency Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka as appointed by Raila Odinga and was co-chaired with Kimani Ichung’wah, from the government side,” Maanzo said. “That was a very important thing, and later it even formed part of the other deal with the UDA.”
Ruto had earlier said that the party will either form the next government or be part of it.
Maanzo added that several laws had already been amended through the ongoing bipartisan engagements. He praised Oburu Oginga for steering ODM in what he described as the right direction.
“I really want to appreciate Dr. Oburu Oginga, the Senator for Siaya. He has been leading the party in the right direction and giving it the right mood,” he said.
“He has said ODM can have its own presidential candidate, but if we go below the presidency, then it should not be lower than the deputy president position. They can work with Kalonzo Musyoka or William Ruto, whatever formation they end up to.”
Maanzo’s sentiments come after Senator for Homa Bay County, Moses Kajwang, ruled out the possibility of ODM endorsing Ruto’s 2027 re-election
ODM seen as key player
Maanzo said ODM, under Raila Odinga, has played a key role in shaping Kenya’s democracy and must remain a central player in any future coalition. He emphasised that ODM has strong numbers in Parliament, making it a valuable partner in forming a government.
“If you listen to the chair, Hon. Gladys Wanga, she is of the same opinion,” Maanzo said. “She has said ODM will be in a coalition in the next government. There is no other day ODM will stay out of government.”
Maanzo further expressed confidence that Kalonzo Musyoka stands a strong chance of winning the presidency, suggesting ODM would support him if that happens.
“In fact, Kalonzo Musyoka will win the presidency,” he said. “ODM has a good working relationship with him.”