President William Ruto has affirmed a strong Political bond between the ruling party, United Democratic Alliance and the Orange Democratic Movement party in a strategic move to unite Kenyans.

In a statement on Monday, April 13, 2026, on his official X account, Ruto announced that both parties shall unite and work together.

While affirming both parties’ contribution towards the People of Kenya, Ruto disputed the underhanded forces driving division between the two Political Parties.

At the same time, President Ruto firmly noted both key political parties’ contributions towards making Kenya a better nation.

“The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) will unite and work together. The underhanded forces driving division between our two parties will not succeed. Our country is better when UDA and ODM are together,” Ruto said.

Ruto made his remarks shortly after inspecting the construction of Nyakoe Modern Market, Kitutu Chache South Constituency, Kisii County. Adding that, upon completion, the market will accommodate more than 300 traders.

UDA, ODM zoning clash

President Ruto’s remarks come just days after Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua urged ODM to prioritise party zoning before entering into any deal with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

Speaking in Laikipia County on Thursday, April 9, 2026, Gachagua cautioned that President William Ruto could easily dominate ODM strongholds if the party allowed UDA to field candidates in these areas.

At the time, the DCP party leader warned that ignoring zoning advice could cost ODM a significant number of its seats in the upcoming elections.

“ODM must be very clear that before they proceed on any agreement with William Ruto, they must agree on zoning. Areas that are predominantly dominated by ODM must be left for ODM only,” Gachagua said.

The debate has gained momentum in recent weeks, with ODM leaders taking an increasingly hardline stance.

Speaking last weekend, ODM national chairperson Gladys Wanga insisted that the party would only engage in negotiations with UDA on the same level.

“If we are going for negotiations, we are going as equal partners, not as a weaker party,” Wanga said, signalling ODM’s firm position ahead of any possible coalition talks.

Her remarks were echoed by a section of ODM lawmakers, who warned that the party would not tolerate UDA fielding candidates in areas it considers its political bastions.

On the other hand, the Alego Usonga MP Sam Atandi was particularly emphatic, declaring zoning a non-negotiable issue.

“We are ready to die for zoning. There is no negotiation when it comes to zoning. We are not going to allow UDA to plant candidates in Luo Nyanza and other ODM strongholds,” he said.