Governors from four counties of the western region of Kenya have affirmed the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Central Management Committee to initiate structured negotiations with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) over a possible coalition ahead of the 2027 general election.

Led by Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa on Wednesday, January 14, 2025, the four governors also showed their support for President William Ruto’s reelection bid, citing the need for political stability and sustained development across the country.

Barasa was accompanied by his counterparts from Vihiga, Wilbur Otichillo; Kenneth Lusaka of Bungoma; and Paul Otuoma of Busia.

Consolidating support

“We support the decision of the CEC committee. We want to consolidate our people so that in 2027 we can have all leaders in elective positions, from Member of County Assemblies (MCAs) to the president elected on the ODM-UDA coalition,” Barasa stated.

“We are in the broad-based government under the leadership of President William Ruto, and that remains our priority,” Otuoma added.

On his part, Lusaka, who has been championing the call for the Mulembe nation unity ahead of the 2027 elections, reiterated the message with pleas to unite behind Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

“As a region, we will remain together politically and economically. My duty is to work with all from this region and bring all to give President William Ruto a second term,” Lusaka posited.

Collectively, the leaders emphasised that a united political front will enable the western region to effectively push its development agenda and secure meaningful representation at the national level.

The endorsement of the decision comes after ODM leader Oburu Oginga, on Monday, January 10, 2025, announced the party will kick off formal negotiations with other political groups, starting with the UDA party.

The Kilifi meeting, chaired by Oburu Oginga, followed extensive internal discussions, including the review of the ten-point agenda and the differences within the ODM party, among other pressing issues of importance.

“The committee meeting expressed the intention to initiate structured negotiations with different political formations, beginning with the United Democratic Alliance,” the Central Committee said in a statement.