Raila Odinga's ODM Party Denies Allegations It Has Plans to Join UDA 2027: “Empty Gossip”

• The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has denied rumors of plans to merge with President William Ruto's United Democratic Alliance (UDA), dismissing the chatter on the streets
• ODM Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati hinted at the possibility of working with Ruto for national unity following the inclusion of ODM members in the Cabinet
• Local reports speculated that Ruto may try to woo Raila Odinga's strongholds as part of a possible political alliance ahead of the 2027 elections.
• ODM confirmed its national presence and solid base, urging Kenyans to ignore rumors about joining the UDA

Nairobi – The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has denied planning to form an alliance with President William Ruto's United Democratic Alliance Party (UDA).

On Saturday, August 24, the new deputy leader of the ODM party who is also the governor of Kisii, Simba Arati, said the party led by Raila Odinga is ready to cooperate with the president going forward, especially after handing over some of the leaders of the Orange party positions Council of Ministers.

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Arati saw that Ruto's decision to include a section of the opposition in the National Executive Council in his broad approach to the Executive was a step towards national unity.

He hinted at cooperating with Ruto and forming a strong coalition in the 2027 polls, if the situation allows.

Is ODM planning to merge with UDA?

A daily newspaper has reported that before Raila leaving the AUC campaigns, Ruto will begin the drive to inherit his constituency, which the ODM founder has held for 19 years.

The newspaper reported that the agreement between Raila and Ruto may be the biggest political marriage in the country Kenyahis reception was held at the White House and was attended by three presidents.

According to the statement, the word on the street was that the ODM parties and UDA will unite to form a very stable coalition before the 2027 General Election.

However, in a statement on Wednesday, August 28, the Orange party said that it has supporters across the country.

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The party dismissed the alleged conspiracy, and advised anyone pushing the agenda to remain a street rumour.

“ODM is built on a strong foundation. It is strong and its pillars can be heard all over the country. Therefore, any word on the street should remain only on the street,” read the statement.

Why is Ruto now the 'favourite' of ODM leaders?

Earlier, Alego Usonga MP Samuel Atandi caused controversy by expressing his support for Ruto's administration.

Atandi who is a close ally of Raila revealed that their opposition to Ruto was due to the exclusion of ODM leaders in the government.

He noted that while ODM leaders are now being appointed to key positions, those who oppose the Ruto government have had challenges.

Speaking in his local dialect, Atandi received cheers from the crowd as he explained the change in support for Ruto.

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Source: TUKO.co.ke