Mbeere North constituency Member of Parliament Leo Wamuthende has advised the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party to withdraw its expectations regarding the deputy president slot ahead of potential coalition talks with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) for the 2027 elections and push for other slots that are up for grabs.

Speaking in a morning interview with a local TV station on Thursday, March 5, 2026, Wamuthende acknowledged that it is acceptable for ODM to aspire to the deputy president position but noted that Deputy President Kithure Kindiki is actively serving and supporting President William Ruto’s administration and is not up to being shortchanged ahead of 2027.

“It’s okay for ODM to have the wish of being given the DP seat, but we already have Kithure Kindiki, who is working & supporting the president; therefore, they should look for seats that are vacant or wishes that are easier to grant,” Wamuthende remarked.

Wamuthende’s remarks come amid ongoing discussions between UDA and ODM, as both parties explore strategies to consolidate support ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The first-time lawmaker has echoed sentiments of the deputy president, Kithure Kindiki, who told Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders and supporters that the government has space for everyone as the deal for a pact continues.

Kindiki defends his position

Speaking on Friday, February 27, 2026, in Homa Bay County, Kindiki assured leaders that the arrangement was not meant to fight anyone or exclude any group but instead meant to bring all communities together.

“Do not worry about anything. This broad-based government will be enough for all of us. Do not have fear or be afraid of anything. It is not about one against the other,” Kindiki said.

“All of us can have a place in the broad-based government because there are enough spaces for all the people of Kenya. All the communities of Kenya can have a stake in the government,” Kindiki added.

ODM’s interest in the DP position

The deputy president’s remarks seemed to be a direct response to statements made earlier by the leader of the ODM Party, Oburu Odinga.

Earlier in February 2026, Oburu publicly addressed the party’s stance regarding the highly coveted deputy president position, emphasising that the party is actively pursuing and has a clear interest in securing the seat in future political contests.

However, Oburu was careful to stress that this strategic political ambition does not stem from any personal animosity or ill will toward the current holder of the office, Kithure Kindiki.